Research Of The Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal Map

The Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal Map collected in Zhejiang Provincial Museum is a long scroll ink painting classified as national cultural relics without name,authors and drawing year.The figure is a blue-and-green landscape painting in 2032 cm long,78.5cm high.It has meticulously scripted the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal’s complex networks and mountains and towns along the canal,especially famous scenic spots which are noted by gold lettering.In this research,we make an inductive and comparative study of this map.Firstly,we read the surface information especially the space-form information of the figure with the help of local chronicle documents including historical maps.Secondly,we comparatively study of other maps and geography-paintings in the Ming and Qing dynasties,summarizing their characteristics.Thirdly,we study the drawing age,drawing purpose and painters of this map.This map has two homologous maps collected in Taipei Palace Museum and National Museum of China.Through the study of the homologous maps,we can understand the origin relationship between these three maps.Finally,this research will show the value of The Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal Map in art,historical geography and heritage research.