Su E Pian (or
Su Wo Pien) is an illustrated, four volume work of
Chinese erotica. It dates back to 1640 from the
Ming Dynasty.
Su E Pian is the story of Master Wu Shan Si, an historical figure of
the Tang Dynasty, and his beautiful concubine, Su E (Lady of the
Moon). The couple engaged in sex using positions inspired by various
natural settings. Su E gives each a poetic. For example: Flowers
Longing for Butterflies The positions are illustrated with wood
engravings and accompanied by verse following the style of traditional
Chinese poem writing. The work reflects Taoism's emphasis on
returning to nature and on the harmony that should exist between
nature and humankind.
The authorship of the book is attributed to the Immortal Square
Pot. "Pot," in Chinese Taoist terms, symbolizes a mixture of Ying
and Yang, or a small universe, and was a favorite symbol of the
Taoists. The engraver, Huang Yi Kai, was well-known for his artistic
accomplishments. His style of woodcutting was minute and exquisite.
The most complete copy of Su E Pian known to exist, is currently found
at the Kinsey Institute, donated in 1948.
The body of work is composed of 10,000 Chinese characters, 90
illustrations, and 43 chapters. It is written on white cotton paper
and white fringe. The frame is 20.8 cm in height and 14.1 cm in width.
Reference:
The source of this w/u came from the Kinsey Institute's own web pages about the work.
http://www.indiana.edu/~kinsey/suepian.html