Illustration of Mount Zhaobao

original: "Zhaobaoshan Tu"

This intricate woodblock print captures the rugged terrain and strategic significance of Mount Zhaobao literally "Mountain of Invited Treasures". Rendered in the traditional landscape shanshui original: "shanshui"; an artistic style focusing on the harmony between mountains and water style, the illustration serves both as a work of art and a topographical record for coastal administration.

The scene is divided across the spread as follows:

• The Mountain Pass: On the left, a fortified gatehouse stands watch over a steep mountain pass. A narrow path consisting of many stone steps climbs through the peaks, which are interspersed with gnarled pine trees.
• The Coastal Frontier: On the right, the illustration depicts the mountain's edge meeting the sea. The water is rendered with stylized, turbulent waves, emphasizing the power of the ocean.
• Maritime Activity: Several traditional sailing junks are shown offshore. Historically, Mount Zhaobao sat at the mouth of the Yong River in Ningbo, making it a "gateway" for both lucrative foreign trade and essential maritime defense against pirates and invaders.

The craftsmanship of this woodcut print original: "muke banhua" is particularly evident in the fine lines used to depict the textures of the cliffs and the rhythmic patterns of the sea. By including both the military gatehouse and the trading vessels, the artist highlights the mountain’s dual identity as a fortress and a commercial landmark.