The Record of Yangzhou Boat Paintings

Author: Li Dou (Qing Dynasty)
Publisher:
Publishing Date: April 1, 1960
Features: The Record of Yangzhou's Painted Boats was written by the author during his residence in Yangzhou, based on "what was seen with the eyes and heard with the ears," and was compiled over more than thirty years. It covers a wide range of topics, including the urban planning of Yangzhou, the evolution of the Grand Canal, crafts, commerce, gardens and historical sites, customs, opera, and anecdotes of scholars. Some records are quite detailed and specific. This book provides valuable materials for understanding and researching the socio-economic and cultural conditions of China in the 17th and 18th centuries. However, the book focuses primarily on the prosperous aspects of Yangzhou, while omitting the darker side of society hidden beneath this prosperity, such as the exploitation of the laboring people by the feudal ruling class and the hardships endured by salt industry workers. This is a point that should be noted when reading the book.