​

 

Ephemera, the name collectors give to printed material made for everyday use, often intended to be temporary or disposable, offers a fascinating glimpse into daily life during the Mao Period (1949–1976).

 

Our collection brings together an extraordinary variety of paper: from certificates and illustrations to cigarette packet covers, brand labels and bus tickets. We also collect papercuts, a different kind of paper-based storytelling that adds another dimension to this varied archive.

 

Small, often overlooked and sometimes surprisingly beautiful, these printed fragments are pieces of history in their own right.

 

Explore more ephemera

​

See more in our online photograph album, or email us for details