Agricultural Tools of Imperial China

Chain Pump

A chain pump is a type of water pump in which several circular discs are positioned on endless chain.  One part of the chain dips into the water, and the chain runs through a tube, slightly bigger than the discs.  as the chain is dran up the tube, water becomes trapped between the discs and is lifted to the top.

Harrow

A farming tool with sharp metal blades, used to break up the earth before planting crops.

Ox

A very large bull that is used to work on farms.

Rice Paddies

A field flooded with water in which rice is grown.

Terrace Farming

A series of flat areas cut out of a hill like steps, and used to grow crops.