New Books in East Asian Studies Timothy J. Brook, “Mr. Selden’s Map of China: Decoding the Secrets of a Vanished Cartographer” (Bloomsbury, 2013)
Nov 29, 2013
Timothy J. Brook, a historian specializing in Chinese history, explores the captivating world of Mr. Selden’s Map of China. He delves into its historical narrative, unraveling the cultural significance of this 17th-century artifact and its creator, John Selden. Brook highlights the complex interplay between East and West during a time of exploration and trade. The podcast also touches on intriguing themes like cartography's influence on international law and the peculiar stories surrounding figures like John Saris, revealing a tapestry of historical intrigue and intellectual exchange.
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Map Discovery
- Tim Brook discovered the Selden map in the Bodleian Library's basement after an email from David Helliwell.
- The map, depicting East Asia, didn't resemble typical Chinese or European maps, sparking Brook's curiosity.
Unconventional Map
- The Selden map, while Chinese in origin, deviates from established Chinese cartographic conventions.
- Its unique features suggest an independent creation, raising questions about its authenticity and purpose.
Selden's Tithe Troubles
- John Selden, a polymath, faced imprisonment for challenging the divine right of tithes.
- He argued for a legal basis, a concept then difficult to grasp, even for King James I.