Firsts Hong Kong

The rare book and map fair Firsts Hong Kong is hitting the Hong Kong Maritime Museum in early December. An incarnation of the China in Print fair that’s now been brought under the Firsts umbrella, this fair presents rare books, manuscripts, photographs, prints, and papers relating to Asia and beyond from international dealers.

Highlights worth investigating (and investing in) include a first edition (1873-1874) of Illustrations of China and its People by John Thomson, a photographic documentation of China and its people; the only Dutch edition of the first atlas of China produced in Europe, Novus Atlas Sinensis from 1655 by Jean Blaeu; a rare map of Hong Kong drawn by Sung Chun Wa dating circa 1922 to 1926, with major settlements, roads, and railways rendered in both English and Chinese; and a first edition of Esop’s Fables (more commonly known as Aesop’s Fables) translated into Chinese by Robert Thom in 1840, and inscribed by William Jardine – featuring columns in English, Chinese, and romanised Chinese to act as a primer for British staff of Jardine, Matheson & Co., this volume was the first time Chinese wooden blocks and European metal type were used together during printing.

Interestingly, Firsts Hong Kong will also feature the most comprehensive collection of early editions and translations of Quotations of Chairman Mao Zedong, famously known as his ‘Little Red Book’. Presented by Peter Harrington Rare Books, this 200-strong collection has been assembled over 30 years and offers a look into its pre-history, publication story, and surrounding political shifts through rare bindings, unique covers, and even unauthorised translations.

Firsts Hong Kong is open to the general public for free entry – register your interest to receive your complimentary ticket.