Voyage du marchand arabe Sulaymân en Inde et en Chine rédigé en 851 Suivi de remarques par Abû Zayd Hasan (vers 916), traduit de l'arabe avec introduction, glossaire et index par Gabriel Ferrand

About this book

"Voyage du marchand arabe Sulaymân en Inde et en Chine rédigé en 851" by Sirafi et al. is a historical account likely written in the early medieval period. This work narrates the travels of the Arab merchant Sulaymân as he ventures through India and China, providing valuable insights into the cultures, economies, and geographic knowledge of the time. The text is not only a travelogue but also a window into the intricate web of trade routes and cultural exchanges that characterized these ancient civilizations. The opening of the text sets the stage for Sulaymân's voyage, detailing its significance and historical context. It introduces the manuscript, revealing that it contains two main parts: the journey itself, penned either by Sulaymân or a scribe recounting his adventures, and a supplementary account by the scholar Abû Zayd Ḥasan that offers additional geographical insights and updates on the regions Salaymân visited. The narrative captures both the merchant's experiences and the vibrant exchange of ideas and products occurring along established trade routes, highlighting the rich tapestry of cultural interactions in Asia during the 9th century.