An Illustrated Guide to Ming Dynasty Seagoing Ships

Illustrated Guide to Ming Dynasty Seagoing Ships focuses primarily on warships. The book is divided into two parts: Ancient Illustrations and Descriptions, and Modern Commentary. The first part contains illustrations and descriptions: the illustrations show various ships recorded in ancient Ming texts, while the descriptions explain the details of each vessel. For the first time, this book brings together a remarkably comprehensive collection of illustrations and descriptions of Ming Dynasty seagoing ships. It also provides rare annotations for difficult terms in the descriptions, especially those relating to the various parts of ancient ships, reflecting the author’s many years of research. The second part traces the development of Ming Dynasty seagoing ships and their role in expanding overseas trade and strengthening maritime defenses. It also covers the struggle to repel foreign invasions and defend the nation’s territory.