China through the eyes of Russians in the 18th – 19th centuries

The article examines the evolution of ideas about China in Russian society in the 18th - 19th centuries. It traces the change in the image of China in the minds of Russian people under the influence of the development of diplomatic relations, trade ties, scientific expeditions and cultural exchange. Written sources of the era are analyzed: travelers' diaries, diplomatic reports, scientific works, fiction and journalism. The contribution of key figures to the formation of ideas about China in Russia is considered, in particular of N.Ya. Bichurin (Fr. Iakinf).