Examining Marine Life and Scientific Knowledge in a Historical Context

CITIC Press Group in Beijing has recently released the final volume of the collection “Notes of Hai Cuo Tu,” authored by science blogger Zhang Chenliang from 2014. The entire collection has now been published.

“Hai Cuo Tu” is a pictorial book created by painter Nie Huang in the Qing Dynasty that describes over 300 marine life and stories in the coastal area. The book is currently divided into four volumes and stored at the Palace Museum in Beijing and Taipei.

Nie’s work has some inaccurate information due to the limitations of his time, and he left some unresolved biological questions, hoping future generations would answer them. Zhang has attempted to do this in his collection. Many of Nie’s questions can now be answered with scientific knowledge that we possess today. Zhang researched and found the answers.

According to Zhang, he feels that he is communicating with ancient people across time and space through this collection.

In the latest volume, Zhang examines 96 original pictures in “Hai Cuo Tu,” draws on his own research and knowledge from the pictures, and organizes information about fish, shellfish, marine beasts, and plants into 20 notes.

The publication of “Notes of Hai Cuo Tu” is significant because it provides a scientific interpretation of Nie Huang’s work, which was published over 100 years ago. It also showcases the development of scientific knowledge and how it can be used to correct past inaccuracies.

The book offers a glimpse into the marine life of the Qing Dynasty coastal area, as well as the state of science at the time. Zhang’s research, coupled with scientific advances, offers a more accurate understanding of marine life.

Moreover, “Notes of Hai Cuo Tu” allows readers to appreciate the intersection of art and science. Nie Huang’s illustrations are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they are also informative. Zhang’s notes further enhance our understanding of the illustrations and help us appreciate them even more.

Additionally, the book provides insight into how science has evolved over time. The scientific advancements we have made in the past few centuries have allowed us to better understand the world around us. “Notes of Hai Cuo Tu” is a testament to this progress.

Furthermore, the collection is a valuable resource for anyone interested in marine life, history, or science. It provides a comprehensive overview of the marine life of the Qing Dynasty coastal area and the scientific knowledge surrounding it.

The publication of “Notes of Hai Cuo Tu” also highlights the importance of preserving historical artifacts. Without Nie Huang’s original illustrations, we would not have this valuable resource today. By preserving historical artifacts, we ensure that future generations can learn from them and appreciate their significance.

In conclusion, “Notes of Hai Cuo Tu” is a remarkable collection that provides a scientific interpretation of Nie Huang’s work and highlights the intersection of art and science. It also demonstrates the progress of science over time and the importance of preserving historical artifacts

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