The Development of Ancient Arabic Maps in the 7th-15th Century and the Records of China in Them

Abstract The ancient map is not only the reflection of geographical conditions in ancient times, but also the expression of political power and geographical concepts at that time. The ancient Arabic geographical books and maps of the 7th-15th century provided continuous and rich records and knowledge about China. The commercial needs, political support and scientific and technological progress were the main driving forces for the development of China’s image and message in the ancient Arabic maps, in which China showed a transition from vague and general mythological romantic style to a relatively accurate realistic style. The ancient Arabic maps not only depict the route of the “Maritime Silk Road” between China and Arabia in the 7th-15th century, but also provide rich historical evidence for the maritime trade and civilization mutual learning between China and Arab countries.