The term "kunyu wanguo quantu" is a Chinese phrase that can be translated as "An Illustrated Supplement to the Gazetteer of All Nations." It refers to a type of illustrated atlas or geographical reference book that was commonly used in ancient China.
In Chinese, "kunyu" means "all nations" or "all countries," "wanguo" means "complete nation" or "world," and "quantu" means "illustrated supplement" or "atlas." Therefore, "kunyu wanguo quantu" can be understood as a comprehensive and pictorial representation of various nations or countries worldwide.
These types of atlases were often created during the Ming and Qing dynasties (14th to 19th century) and were popular among scholars, geographers, and officials. They aimed to provide detailed maps, geographic information, and cultural descriptions of different regions and countries across the globe.
The "kunyu wanguo quantu" typically consisted of illustrations accompanied by brief texts, offering information on topography, climate, customs, traditions, history, and notable landmarks of each nation or region. They were not only seen as educational resources but also served as a means of cultural exchange and diplomatic purposes, as they showcased the extent of Chinese knowledge about other parts of the world.
Overall, "kunyu wanguo quantu" can be considered as an essential historical reference in Chinese cartography, embodying the ancient Chinese understanding of global geography and the desire to depict the diverse cultures and territories of the world.
