玉壺淸話   By: Unknown (11th cent.)

"玉壺淸話" is a fascinating collection of ancient Chinese tales that offers readers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of China. The stories are beautifully written and showcase the wisdom, humor, and moral values of traditional Chinese society. Each tale is unique and captivating, drawing the reader in with its vivid imagery and engaging narrative. The author's skill in storytelling is evident throughout the book, making it a delightful read for anyone interested in Chinese literature and folklore. Overall, "玉壺淸話" is a timeless treasure that will leave readers entertained and enlightened.

First Page:

真宗嘗曲宴群臣於太清樓，君臣歡浹，談笑無間，忽問廛沽尤佳者何處，中貴人奏有南 仁和者。亟令進之，遍賜宴席。上亦頗愛，問其價，中貴人以實對。上遽問近臣曰：「 唐酒價幾何？」無能對者，唯丁晉公奏曰：「唐酒每升三十。」上曰：「安知？」丁 曰：「臣嘗讀杜甫詩曰：『蚤來就飲一斗酒，恰有三百青銅錢。』是知一升三十錢。」 上大喜曰：「甫之詩自可為一時之史。」 蘇翰林易簡一日直禁林，得江南徐邈所造欹器，遂以水試於玉堂。一小璫傳宣於公，見 之，不識其名，因密奏。既曉，太宗召對，問曰：「卿所玩者，得非欹器乎？」公奏 曰：「然。」亟取進之於便坐，上親試之以水，或增損一絲許，器則隨欹，合其中，則 凝然不搖。上歎曰：「真聖人切誡之器也。」公奏曰：「願陛下執大寶神器，持盈守 成，皆如此器，則王者之業可與天地同矣。」上徐笑謂公曰：「若腹之容酒，得此器之 節，安有沉湎之過耶？」蓋公嘗嗜飲過中，故托此以規之。易簡泣謝慚佩。上親撰《欹 器銘》及草書《誡酒詩》以賜焉。 樞密直學士劉綜出鎮並門，兩制、館閣皆以詩寵其... Continue reading book >>