“Is it complete?” sounds like a yes-or-no question. For an old mahjong set, it usually is not. Sets were made for different rules, markets, and moments; owners also added jokers, blanks, racks, or replacements over time. Begin with a literal record, then compare it with evidence for the set’s likely intended configuration.
Preserve the opening sequence
Photograph the closed case and each layer as you open it. Capture trays, paper packets, empty slots, labels, ties, and folded instructions before moving anything. An empty fitted space can be evidence of a missing component. A loose tile tucked under a tray may be a deliberate spare.
Count by what you see
Make separate lines for:
- each numbered suit;
- winds and dragons;
- flowers and seasons, preserving visible numbering or groupings;
- jokers, blanks, and tiles with stickers or overprinting;
- dice, counters, wind indicators, racks, and scoring pieces;
- booklets, score cards, receipts, notes, and advertisements;
- pieces that differ in size, back color, engraving, wear, or construction.
Do not silently reclassify a blank as a missing joker or a mismatched tile as “wrong.” Record first; interpret later.
Make a discrepancy table
Use four columns: observed, expected from source, difference, and confidence. The “source” might be an instruction booklet found in the case, a period catalog, or a documented museum object—not a generic modern tile-count chart.
If two sources disagree, retain both. “Configuration unresolved” is a legitimate result.
Photograph a repeatable grid
Arrange tiles face-up on a padded, clean surface in consistent groups. Add a ruler in one image, then photograph backs and representative edges. Assign temporary identifiers such as B1–B36 for one suit or X1–X4 for unmatched pieces. Those identifiers let you connect a condition note or close-up photograph to the correct object.
When something is missing
Do not let one gap erase the value of the whole record. Mark the location, look for evidence of replacements, and keep unmatched pieces. If you want the set playable, read the replacement-tile field note before buying or altering anything.
Completeness is a conclusion supported by a particular ruleset, date, and source. Inventory is the evidence underneath it.
Finish with a one-page record
Your first inventory should include an overall count, grouped counts, accessories, papers, obvious variants, condition alerts, and the date photographed. Save the original photographs separately from edited copies.