In the late 20th century, a particular show at the National Library of Singapore will be held that will feature unique artwork from the four best-selling Chinese books, including Journey to the West, Water Margin, Romance of the Three Kingdoms, and Journey of the Red Chamber.
The National Library Board ( NLB ) announced in a press release on Friday ( Mar 28 ) that these artefacts from as early as the 17th century will be on loan from the National Library of China and haven’t been seen outside of China.
The National Library of China and NLB signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Friday evening, which is the subject of the museum.  ,
It will display earlier versions of the four works as well as “related components” from the 17th to 19th centuries. This includes theater scripts, woodblock prints, and texts with scientific commentary in the tradition of traditional Chinese literature and historiography, NLB added.
Among the significant documents that will be displayed are:
- One of the earliest handwritten versions from the Jimao year ( 1759 ) and the Jimao manuscript are regarded as significant for providing insight into the novel before subsequent revisions.
- An adaptation of Romance of the Three Empires that features images that show the Ming dynasty’s transition from character-focused to event-driven representations.
- 40 figures from Water Margin  are included in this exclusive collection of having game cards.
- A classic musical text from Journey To the West that was performed in the Qing dynasty royal court was adapted from it.
The four best-known books are said to have had an impact on numerous different literary works around the world, including the well-known video game Black Myth: Wukong.  ,
The museum will be shown in Mandarin and English. More information may get made available as soon as possible.
According to known assistant director at the National Library of China, Chen Ying, reports from the four classics” continue to hold enduring and appropriate lessons” and are among the most precious works of literature among the Chinese.
The books are “timeless artistic masterpieces that, among other things, reflect the common themes of friendship, devotion, and justice,” according to NLB’s chief executive officer, Ng Cher Pong.
Over the past few decades, these legends have inspired many people all over the world, leading to many other original works. We hope that the show will make Singaporeans more aware of their literary heritage and design and inspire them to become even more creative.
The program comes in time for Singapore and China’s 35th celebration of diplomatic relations.
The two regional libraries’ long-standing agreement, which was established in 1997, expands on, including the change of library materials, personnel attachments, and information resource sharing.