1-156-219 - Oxford Science Archive/Heritage Images

Marco Polo, Venetian traveller and merchant, 19th century. Together with his father Niccolo and uncle Matteo, Marco Polo (1254-1324) set off from Venice for Asia in 1271, travelling the Silk Road and arriving at the court of Kublai Khan some three years later. They spent 17 years in China before returning home, arriving back in Italy in 1295. Marco Polo was imprisoned by the Genoese, writing an account of his travels, Il Milione whilst in captivity. Obverse of a commemorative medal.