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Indian sailing ships described by Marco Polo, 15th century
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Indian sailing ships described by Marco Polo, 15th century
Indian sailing ships described by Marco Polo, 15th century. The ships are cogs, the general European trading vessels of the time. The figure in the centre is blowing a brass instrument of the trumpet family. Together with his father and uncle, Venetian traveller and merchant Marco Polo (1254-1324) set off from Venice for Asia in 1271, travelling the Silk Road and arriving at the court of Kublai Khan some three years later. They spent 17 years in China before returning home, arriving back in Italy in 1295. Marco Polo was imprisoned by the Genoese, writing an account of his travels, Il Milione whilst in captivity. From a manuscript of the travels of Marco Polo from the Bodlean Library, Oxford
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Media ID 14863671
© Oxford Science Archive / Heritage-Images
Exploration Illuminated Manuscript Marco Marco Polo Oxford Science Archive Polo Port Trumpet Venetian Hindoostan Sailing Ship Thirteenth Century
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the Indian sailing ships described by Marco Polo in the 15th century. The vessels depicted here are cogs, which were commonly used as European trading ships during that era. In the center of the image, we see a figure blowing a brass instrument from the trumpet family, adding an element of musical artistry to this historical scene. Marco Polo, along with his father and uncle, embarked on a remarkable journey from Venice to Asia in 1271. They traversed the famous Silk Road and eventually arrived at Kublai Khan's court after three years of travel. Spending nearly two decades in China, they immersed themselves in its culture before finally returning home to Italy in 1295. It is worth noting that Marco Polo faced imprisonment by the Genoese upon his return but utilized this time to write about his extraordinary travels. His account, known as "Il Milione" became renowned worldwide. This particular image is derived from a manuscript found at Oxford's Bodleian Library and offers us a glimpse into medieval times. It beautifully captures not only the majestic sailing ships but also provides insights into trade routes, exploration, and cultural exchange between Europe and India. The vibrant colors within this print bring life to both buildings and people alike while emphasizing water transport as a crucial mode of travel during those times. This fascinating piece serves as an invaluable historical record documenting Marco Polo's adventures through Hindoostan (India) centuries ago.
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