Monkey and the Inkpot

Discover the fascinating world of Monkey and the Inkpot by Carla Suzan Nappi, a groundbreaking exploration of the Bencao gangmu (Systematic materia medica) by the renowned Chinese scholar Li Shizhen (1518–1593). Published by Harvard University Press in 2009, this hardcover edition spans 250 pages, immersing readers in the rich tapestry of 16th-century Chinese intellectual life.

Nappi unveils a captivating “cabinet of curiosities,” showcasing a diverse array of gems, beasts, and oddities. Through her meticulous research, she highlights how Li Shizhen utilized natural history to inform the use of both natural and artificial substances as medicinal remedies. This essential study not only sheds light on the historical significance of Li's work but also emphasizes the profound influence of Chinese scholarship on the evolution of medicine and natural history. Perfect for historians, scholars, and anyone intrigued by the intersection of science and culture in China.