Treatise on Armament Technology, Volume 122
Military Resources
Ships, Page 14

Dongguan County

Big-Headed Ship

Dongguan (東莞) is a historic coastal city in the Pearl River Delta, situated between Guangzhou and Shenzhen. It has long been a center for maritime trade and naval construction.

Guangdong ships original: 廣船 (Guǎngchuán) are now collectively known as Black-Hulled Vessels original: 烏艚 (Wūcáo). These ships were likely named for the dark, protective coating of tung oil or pitch used to preserve the wood in the warm, salt-heavy waters of the South China Sea.. There are also several classes of River-Crossing Ships original: 橫江船 (Héngjiāngchuán); these were versatile vessels used for both coastal patrol and inland waterway transit.. Those referred to as White-Hulled Vessels original: 白艚 (Báicáo) follow the Fujian ship original: 福建船 (Fújiànchuán) design.

The illustration shows a "Big-Headed Ship" (Datouchuan), so named for its broad, blunt bow, which provided stability and room for heavy weaponry. This design contrasts with the "Pointed-tail" ships seen on previous pages.

This Big-Headed Ship is a large, wooden warship depicted navigating through surging waves. It features multiple masts equipped with rectangular battened sails. A notable military feature is the covered cabin area 艙 (cāng): specialized compartments that protected the crew and supplies from enemy fire and the elements. where soldiers are stationed.

Along the sides of the hull, rowers use long oars to ensure the vessel remains maneuverable in calm winds or narrow channels. On the deck, soldiers are clearly visible, armed with bows and spears, ready for engagement. The high stern and sturdy construction reflect the Ming Dynasty's advanced naval engineering, specifically adapted for the defense of the southern coastline against pirates and foreign incursions.