Ordering the Myriad Things: From Traditional Knowledge to Scientific Botany in China

The book Ordering the Myriad Things explores how traditional knowledge of plants in China gave way to scientific botany between the mid-nineteenth and mid-twentieth centuries, expanding the universe of plants and fueling a new knowledge of China. Botanical illustration is crucial for recording nature.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 11 November 2021
Publisher: University of Washington Press

Longlisted for the 2024 SHNH Natural History Book Prize, "Ordering the Myriad Things" delves into the rich tapestry of plant wisdom in China, spanning from the Southern Mountain Tea Flower to the Dawn Redwood. This comprehensive body of documented knowledge encompasses horticultural manuals, monographs, encyclopedias, geographies, and specialized anthologies of verse and prose penned by keen observers of nature. However, until the late nineteenth century, the standard practice of identifying and describing new and unknown species or properties lacked a standardized approach.

In "Ordering the Myriad Things," Nicholas K. Menzies explores the transformative journey from traditional plant knowledge to scientific botany in China. This shift occurred between the mid-nineteenth and mid-twentieth centuries, when plants were recognized not only in terms of their taxonomic relationships with other plants but also within the broader ecological context. This shift not only broadened the horizons of plant knowledge to encompass unfamiliar species and geographies but also ignited a deeper understanding of China itself.

One notable aspect of this transformation is the significance of botanical illustration as a tool for recording nature. Menzies contrasts the historical use of plant images with the conventions of scientific drawing, highlighting the transition from "traditional" systems of organization, classification, observation, and description to "modern" ones. He sheds light on the complexities and challenges faced during this transition, as well as the contributions made by individuals and institutions in shaping the field of botanical illustration.

Through his meticulous research and engaging storytelling, "Ordering the Myriad Things" offers a captivating exploration of the intersection of botany, culture, and history. It sheds light on the rich legacy of plant knowledge in China and its profound impact on the world. This book is a valuable addition to the literature on natural history and botanical sciences, providing insights into the complex and fascinating world of plants.

In conclusion, "Ordering the Myriad Things" is a must-read for anyone interested in the history, culture, and science of plants. It offers a captivating journey through time, illuminating the transformative power of knowledge and the enduring significance of botanical illustration in recording the wonders of nature.

Weight: 452g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780295749464