Abstract: As one of the “Eight Eccentrics of Yangzhou”, Gao Fenghan (1683–1749) was an eminent
painter and calligrapher in the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912). Not only is he renowned for his significant
achievement in Chinese painting and calligraphy, but his inscriptions and colophons also contain insights
into art theories. Yangzhou Library’s collections include two rare books purchased by Gao, in which
seven hitherto unpublished inscriptions were recently discovered. They are mostly Gao’s commentaries,
poems, and purchasing background concerning the books, though their scholarly values have not been fully
recognized. This examination of the seven inscriptions helps to understand Gao’s connoisseurship of rare
books and reveals a career path beset with difficulties. Through this, we may glean new examples and clues
for the study of Gao’s intellectual thoughts and life.

Key words: Gao Fenghan, Inscriptions and colophons, Textual study