Chinese woodcut: Bone measurements - back of the body

Woodcut from Shangke buyao (Supplement to Traumatology) by Qian Xiuchang, published in 1818 (23rd year of the Jiaqing reign period of the Qing dynasty). The illustration shows bone measurements for the back of the body. These are relative measurements, based on the proportionate cun (Chinese/proportionate inch) unit, taking into account differences in stature and physique. 1 chi = 10 cun. For particulars, see 'Lettering'.

PICTURE TITLE: Bone measurement chart, front of the body. OTHER LETTERING: The distance between the mastoid bones, at the back of the ear, is 9 cun. The distance from the proximal to the distal joint of the middle finger is 4½ cun. From the elbow to the wrist is 1 chi 2½ cun. From the wrist to the proximal joint of the middle finger is 4 cun. From zhugu (Pillar Bone) to the middle of the knee is just under 4 cun. The circumference of the waist is 4 chi 2 cun. From the kneecap to the instep is 1 chi 6 cun. From the instep to the ground is 3 cun. From the knee down to waihuai (external malleolus) is 1 chi 6 cun.