Co-organized by Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS), The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), École française d'Extrême-Orient (EFEO), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) Library Supported by Consulate General of France in Hong Kong Date| 3 – 5/12/2025 (only open for public participation on 3/12 & 4/12) Time| 9:30 a.m. - 5:45 p.m. In-person participation| Lecture Theatre, G/F, Institute of Chinese Studies, CUHK Live streaming| ZOOM Conducted in English The objective of this conference is to explore the role of cartography in enhancing our understanding of territorial governance in East Asian state practice during the period between the years 1500 and 1900. To achieve this goal, the discussions will focus on official maps produced in a particular country and professional setting, within a geographical area extending from Korea, Japan and China in the north to the mainland and insular countries of Southeast Asia. In order to achieve this objective, cartographic materials pertaining to territorial management, will be accorded priority status. These include interprovincial zones, border and coastal areas, land registers, and other cartographic materials produced at various levels by local authorities or central government agencies, and relating to specific functions, such as the postal system, the stationing and movement of troops, the water conservation and the tax revenue. The objective is to ascertain, where possible, the territorial extent and evolution of the state’s footprint over time. The aim of this conference is twofold: to facilitate an understanding of the objectives and priorities of official cartographers in their graphic and textual representation of the territory; to examine the reality of map usage in a professional framework. Furthermore, this study will investigate the methods through which cartographic knowledge was disseminated, with a particular focus on printed materials. It will, identify the main genealogies and types of maps in circulation during this period, as well as the different collecting and archiving practices that affected maps both then and in the present days. In order to gain a comprehensive understanding of this subject the involvement of some major East Asian libraries will be considered, in addition to the HKUST Library and the Bibliothèque nationale de France in Paris. On the third day, panels will bring together professionals from libraries and museums to highlight maps as artefacts created with specific purposes within the rich visual and material culture in early modern East Asia. Institutions from both Europe and East Asia will discuss their efforts to develop and curate their map collections and the significance of this work in advancing scholarly research. The challenges of preserving and restoring unique East Asian map formats will also be addressed. By sharing knowledge and best practices, our aim is to foster collaboration to help preserve this cartographic heritage for future generations. Enquiries: ics-activities@cuhk.edu.hk / lbarsc@ust.hk