The Four Great Chinese Novels
Publication Design for Biejing Lab
The Four Great Classical Novels are widely regarded as the ultimate representation of traditional Chinese literature and culture. This design abandons conventional methods, embracing a critic's perspective to present a fresh interpretation of these timeless works. The set features a split double-bookcase design with a one-centimeter gap that reveals a glimpse of the inner cover's artwork, evoking the sensation of peering through a slightly opened door, enticing readers to uncover the mysteries within.
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Download Press Kit № 164214 Publication Design for Biejing Lab by Xu Tang to access high-res images, essential texts, translations, and exclusive interviews—all in one.
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Great Chinese Novels by Xu Tang
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Publication Design by Xu Tang
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Xu Tang Great Chinese Novels
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Xu Tang Publication Design
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Unique Properties
If One Set of Books were to Represent Traditional Chinese literature and culture, it would be the Four Great Classical Novels. In the design, Broke from traditional approaches by incorporating a critic's perspective, allowing a fresh view of these classics. The set features a split double bookcase design with a one-centimeter gap revealing part of the inner cover's design. It's like opening a crack in the door, waiting for you to explore the mystery inside.
Tags
China's Four Great Classical Novels Publication design innovate
Production Technology
Paper: Specialty paper Pantone spot color printing Packaging: Paper mounting grey board hardcover Craftsmanship: Partial hot stamping
Design Challenge
This set of the Four Great Classical Novels are characterized as a version with critiques from famous scholars. This means that in addition to the complete traditional stories, it includes comments and critiques from notable critics of the time, enriching the content and making it more complex. For the content layout design, Adopted a grid system and a two-color dual printing method to address reading issues and enhance the reading experience. In the design of the outer packaging, Incorporated the perspective of critics, viewing the book from a higher and more objective standpoint. Thus, The two outer boxes resemble doors or mist, revealing a small gap that invites you to open them and discover more exciting stories.
Project Duration
The project starts in January 2023 in Beijing, China and ends in April 2023 in Beijing, China, Officially published in April 2023 and available for sale
Operation Flow
Through the unique design, it brings readers a more valuable sense of collection and a better reading experience. With the opening of the book box, the story relates to the readers step by step, just like the curtain of a play slowly pulls open, which is fascinating.
Research
China's Four Great Classical Novels are the most renowned native novels, and many people around the world have heard of them, such as the stories of Sun Wukong and Zhuge Liang, which originate from these novels. This indicates that these four books have spawned countless versions and designs over time. In designing this new edition of the Four Great Classical Novels, Researched hundreds of design versions from the Qing Dynasty to modern times over a span of 100 years, ultimately discovering a new concept that blends tradition with modernity, simplicity with depth, inviting readers to explore more.
Inspiration
Four Series of Ideas Dream of the Red Chamber: The bookcase mimics a red lion-headed door, slightly opened to reveal the mysterious life of the Jia family. Romance of the Three Kingdoms: Inspired by the "Borrowing Arrows" scene, the case depicts flying arrows, while inside, Zhuge Liang smiles calmly on the straw boat. Journey to the West: Draws from the "Havoc in Heaven" scene among the clouds. Water Margin: Reflects the "Outlaws of the Marsh" theme with waving flags of rebellion.
Project Overview
The Four Great Chinese Novels Publication Design has been a Silver winner in the Print and Published Media Design award category in the year 2024 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Silver A' Design Award celebrates top-tier designs that embody excellence and innovation. This award acknowledges creations that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional, reflecting the designer's deep understanding and skill. Silver A' Design Award recipients are recognized for their contribution to raising industry standards and advancing the practice of design. Their work often incorporates original innovations and elicits a strong emotional response, making a notable impact on the improvement of everyday life.
Image Credits
For design images and photos please credit Xu Tang.
Silver Recognition
Xu Tang was recognized with the coveted Silver A' Design Award in 2025, a testament to excellence of their work The Four Great Chinese Novels Publication Design.
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