Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms

Figures, Volume 14

Page Five

original: "汪輦國" (Wāngniǎn Guó). This is a phonetic transcription. Scholars often identify this with "Onor" (Honavar) or other coastal regions of the Malabar Coast in Southern India, as described by Ming-era maritime travelers.

The Kingdom of Wangnian is located to the south of the Western Fan A general term for the peoples of the Tibetan plateau and Central Asia; it is part of India.
original: "印度" (Yìndù). This is the historical Chinese term for India.
To reach it, one sets out from Gulin original: "故臨" (Gùlín). Also known as Quilon, modern-day Kollam in Kerala, India. It was a major port of call for Chinese treasure fleets during the Ming Dynasty. and changes boats to travel there.
The elephants there are exceedingly large and tall. Upon their backs, the people erect small houses The text describes a "howdah," a carriage or pavilion positioned on an elephant's back, often used for transport or in warfare. to carry brave warriors.
They use gold and silver to make their currency.
The people of this country value honor and "hold life lightly."
original: "輕生" (qīngshēng). This phrase suggests a culture where individuals are willing to risk their lives for honor, duty, or in combat, rather than fearing death.
In their daily customs, they do not share a single stove for cooking, nor do they share the same vessels when eating.
This likely refers to the observation of caste-based or ritual purity laws concerning food preparation and communal dining, which were often noted with curiosity by Chinese observers in India.