The Image of China in Giovanni Botero

Abstract China was a focal point among early modern European intellectuals, with some attempting to reflect on Europe’s own problems through the process of understanding this country. Among them was Giovanni Botero, whose view of China has not garnered much attention. This state occupies an irreplaceable position in Botero’s works, yet his attitude towards it is nuanced: On the one hand, he praises its large population, prosperous cities, and social stability, considering it the best‐governed country in history; on the other hand, he acknowledges that it is an example of oriental despotism. However, this characterization of an oriental despotic state has not diminished Botero’s admiration for this state. The main reason is that China’s voluntary renunciation of external expansion and its commitment to internal peace, justice and prosperity align with his political model of the ‘conservative’ state. Botero believes that its restraint and prudence in foreign policy, its effectiveness in social organization and governance and its promotion of the art of peace are lessons worth learning for European countries. This study of Botero’s view of China will help us to better understand its place in his political thought and its image in early modern Europe.