Cao Zhao’s “Essential Criteria of Antiquities”

Cao Zhao’s “Essential Criteria of Antiquities”

Author

The Gegu Yaolun by Cao Zhao (1387) is the earliest systematic connoisseurship manual; its “Rare Woods” grades agarwood and sandalwood.

Significance

Bridges technical incense lore and literati connoisseurship.

Compiled for general knowledge; traditional references are cultural notes, not medical advice.

常见问题

Cao Zhao’s “Essential Criteria of Antiquities”是什么？

An early-Ming connoisseurship manual whose “Rare Woods” section treats agarwood and sandalwood grading.

沉香怎么选购？

选购沉香应认准可溯源、可检测的渠道，按用途选择形态（线香 / 手串 / 原料），不盲目追高、不轻信「野生」「沉水」等夸大宣传。

沉香如何保养？

沉香怕潮、怕串味、怕暴晒，应密封、避光、阴凉存放，不同产区分开保存；长期不用的香材定期通风检查，防霉防虫。

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