The Art of Terrestrial Diagrams in Early China

An interdisciplinary study of early Chinese maps, focusing on those found in three tombs from the fourth to second century BCE, argues that they did not simply represent natural topography and built environments, but rather made and remade worlds for the living and the dead.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 21 November 2023
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

A comprehensive exploration of early Chinese maps, drawing from a diverse range of interdisciplinary approaches. This groundbreaking English-language monograph delves into the rich history of maps in China, focusing specifically on the remarkable collection discovered in three tombs dating from the fourth to the second century BCE. These tombs comprise the entirety of the known corpus of early Chinese maps, known as ditu. Spanning over a millennium, these maps stand as a testament to the ingenuity and artistic advancements of ancient China.

In contrast to traditional studies that heavily rely on cartography, this book offers a fresh perspective by employing methods from art history, archaeology, material culture, religion, and philosophy. It examines the diverse range of forms and functions found in early Chinese ditu, challenging the notion that they merely depicted natural topography and built environments. Instead, it argues that these maps played a crucial role in shaping and creating worlds for both the living and the dead.

Through meticulous analysis, the book explores the multifaceted and multifunctional diagrammatic tradition that characterized the rendering of space in early China. It uncovers the intricate techniques and symbolic meanings employed by mapmakers, shedding light on their cultural, religious, and philosophical beliefs. The author also delves into the historical context, societal changes, and technological advancements that influenced the development of early Chinese maps, providing a comprehensive understanding of their significance in the ancient world.

This captivating study not only expands our knowledge of early Chinese cartography but also offers valuable insights into the broader cultural and historical context of the ancient world. It serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Chinese civilization and its profound impact on the development of mapmaking and spatial representation.

Dimension: 254 x 178 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226827469