This work serves as a comprehensive catalogue of Chinese printed books, manuscripts, and drawings held within the British Museum's collection. It aims to provide a detailed and accurate record of these valuable cultural artifacts, making them accessible for scholarly research and future preservation. The catalogue meticulously lists and describes each item, offering insights into the historical and artistic significance of Chinese printed materials.

This catalogue is regarded as a foundational reference work for scholars specializing in Chinese studies and the history of the book. Its meticulous compilation by the British Museum's Department of Oriental Manuscripts and Printed Books ensures a high degree of accuracy and scholarly value. The reproduction methods employed, avoiding OCR to maintain image quality, suggest a commitment to preserving the integrity of the original texts and illustrations for future generations. The work is thus positioned as an essential resource for understanding and accessing a significant portion of the British Museum's Chinese collections.