The Book of Rites Transcribed by Chiang Heng, Ch'ing Dynasty Dated 1740         The Book of Rites is one of the venerated Classics of China and an important text for studying Confucian thought and researching ancient Chinese concepts about education, ritual implements and instruments, and everyday rites. This version was handwritten by Chiang Heng, a noted calligrapher of the period, in standard script and represents one of the Thirteen Classics transcribed by him. The folded mountings of each volume have front and back covers of yellow silk upon which are embroidered pairs of gold dragons each with a flaming pearl above them. In between is the character for "shou (long-life)," and they are surrounded by auspicious clouds.