Before we leave for such a research expedition, it is important that we are knowledgeable about the topic that we are going to be researching.
This is why we organized a meeting with the Director of the National Museum of Oriental Art ‘Giuseppe Tucci’ in Rome, Dr. Massimiliano A. Polichetti, a man who has dedicated his life to Oriental studies.
Dr Polichetti: visit his personal page here.
I met him in his office at the Museum where we went through the China Illustrata together and, page by page, he explained a lot about the historical and cultural context of what is described in it. He clarified so many doubts we had about the populations living in the areas we will come across and what the real meanings of the name of some places or divinities are!
For example, the Kalmaks, often cited by Kircher, are not Mongolians but actually Turks!
The museum itself is also amazing and has some great collections from all parts of Asia!
Here some photos of the Museum in the heart of Rome: visit the website here.
Apart from his time and knowledge he also gave me the blessing and protection of Atisha, with which we hope our trip will go smoothly! 🙂
Thank you, Dr. Polichetti!