Core Insights - The 2025 Academic Annual Conference of the Beijing Cao Xueqin Society concluded successfully, focusing on the theme "From Tang Xianzu to Cao Xueqin," exploring the profound spiritual inheritance and artistic evolution between these two literary giants in Chinese literature [1][3] Group 1: Conference Overview - The conference gathered 121 experts and scholars from universities, research institutions, and cultural circles, presenting 96 papers, with 91 scholars giving speeches, including 33 newcomers, showcasing the vibrant research field related to Cao Xueqin and "Dream of the Red Chamber" [3] - Five scholars delivered keynote speeches, highlighting the transformation in themes of "emotion," "dream," and "humanity" in the works of Tang Xianzu and Cao Xueqin, as well as the influence of Tang's works on Cao's writing [3] Group 2: Research Findings - The conference featured three sub-forums, with the first focusing on Cao Xueqin's family-related literature, family studies, and versions of "Dream of the Red Chamber," where scholars demonstrated solid research skills and new material discoveries [5] - A newly discovered text, "Lian Ting Zeng Yan," compiled during the Kangxi era, was discussed, revealing significant insights into Cao Xueqin's family culture and social networks, with 271 works included, surpassing previous academic knowledge [6] - The second sub-forum discussed the text, character imagery, and cultural interpretations of "Dream of the Red Chamber," while the third focused on the artistic dissemination, educational practices, and overseas influence of the work, reflecting the ongoing vitality of research in this area [6]

Core Viewpoint - The recent seminar on "Zengping Butu Shitouji" highlighted its significance in the evolution of "Dream of the Red Chamber" versions and its unique printing history, marking a milestone in Chinese literature and printing technology [2][3]. Group 1: Historical Significance - The first edition of "Zengping Butu Shitouji" was published in 1884 by Shanghai Tongwen Bookstore, representing a transition from woodblock printing to modern printing techniques [2]. - This edition is recognized as the only existing copy with a clear mark from the Guangxu era, confirming its status as the origin of the "lead and stone" printed versions of "Dream of the Red Chamber" [2][3]. Group 2: Printing Technology - The book employs an innovative combination of "lead type and stone printing," which allowed for clearer text and precise reproduction of 260 illustrations, making it accessible to the general public [3][4]. - The printing method significantly reduced costs compared to traditional woodblock printing, facilitating wider distribution of literary works [3][4]. Group 3: Scholarly Contributions - Experts at the seminar discussed the book's textual lineage, noting that it primarily follows the commentaries of Wang Xilian and a certain Shanmin, establishing a foundation for late Qing commentary traditions [3][4]. - The edition is noted for its unique features, including illustrations and a comprehensive depiction of the Grand View Garden, providing visual evidence for research in Redology [4].