gems, jade, Fischer-Book, Central Asia, Xinjiang, nephrite, Khotan, Hetian

Richthofen examines the identity and location of the country and city called “Caindu” in Marco Polo’s account, comparing the Venetian traveler’s description with Chinese geographical and historical sources and with nineteenth-century knowledge of southwestern China. He analyzes Marco Polo’s itinerary, distances, place names, physical geography, and descriptions of local products in an attempt to identify Caindu with a specific region and settlement. Of particular gemological interest is Marco Polo’s description of precious stones and other mineral products associated with Caindu, which Richthofen considers alongside the geography and trade of the region. The paper forms part of nineteenth-century efforts to reconcile Marco Polo’s narrative with Chinese sources and modern geographical exploration.