Chinese Natural Knowledge

This woodblock print from the 1609 encyclopedia Sancai Tuhui illustrates the acupuncture points associated with the spleen meridian. The figure is depicted with labels indicating specific anatomical locations used in traditional Chinese medical practice. Such diagrams were essential for the transmission of medical knowledge during the Ming dynasty.

This woodcut illustration from the 1609 encyclopedia Sancai Tuhui depicts the 'Zhan Fu Tai' (Terrace for Observing Blessings). The scene captures a serene landscape where figures gather on a raised platform, exemplifying the Ming dynasty's aesthetic of harmonizing human structures with the natural world.

This woodcut depicts Xingtian, a defiant deity from the 'Classic of Mountains and Seas' who continued to fight after being decapitated by the Yellow Emperor. He is shown using his nipples as eyes and his navel as a mouth, a powerful symbol of indomitable spirit and eternal struggle in Chinese mythology.

This striking woodcut portrays Pangu, the first sentient being and creator of the world according to Chinese mythology. He is depicted with wild, flowing hair and a garment made of leaves, reflecting his primitive and primordial nature. This image comes from the 'Sancai Tuhui', a comprehensive encyclopedia from the early 17th century that sought to categorize all knowledge of the heavens, earth, and humanity.

This woodcut from the 1609 encyclopedia 'Sancai Tuhui' illustrates Wumu Gang (Five Tombs Ridge). The scene captures the traditional Chinese landscape aesthetic, where small human figures are integrated into a vast, mountainous environment, symbolizing the harmony between humanity and nature.

A woodcut illustration from the 1607 encyclopedia 'Sancai Tuhui' depicting Bailuzhou (Egret Isle). The scene shows several small boats with figures navigating a river, set against a shoreline characterized by dense reeds and stylized trees. This image serves as both a geographical record and an example of the sophisticated woodblock printing culture of the late Ming Dynasty.

This woodcut depicts Yingzhao, a mythical guardian deity from the Shanhai Jing (Classic of Mountains and Seas). Described as having a horse's body, a human face, tiger stripes, and bird wings, Yingzhao was said to manage the celestial garden of the Yellow Emperor. This illustration from a 1667 edition showcases the traditional iconographic style used to visualize the text's fantastical creatures.

This woodcut diagram from the 1609 encyclopedia Sancai Tuhui illustrates the acupuncture points of the kidney meridian. It depicts a seated male figure with lines indicating the precise locations of various points used in traditional Chinese medical practice. Such illustrations were essential for the transmission of medical knowledge during the Ming Dynasty, providing a visual guide for practitioners.

This woodcut portrait depicts Tianhuangshi (the Heavenly Sovereign), the first of the legendary Three Sovereigns of ancient China. He is shown wearing a distinctive collar of leaves and a garment resembling scales, reflecting his primordial and mythological nature. This illustration is from the 1609 encyclopedia Sancai Tuhui, which aimed to categorize all knowledge of the time.