Ancient map with China

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A historic map of the world, with China at its centre, has gone on display at the Library of Congress in Washington. The map was created by Italian missionary Matteo Ricci in 1602. It is one of only two copies in existence in good condition.

Because of its rarity and fragility - the map is printed on rice paper - the map has become known as the Impossible Black Tulip of Cartography.

This is the first time it has been on public show in North America.

Ricci created the map at the request of Emperor Wanli who wanted it to help scholars and explorers.

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