Faculty of Design

Illustration

Caroline Icardo

Ching Shih

"Ching Shih” pictures the 17th century Chinese prostitute turned pirate who at her peak, led a fleet of 800 large ships and commanded a crew of over 70 000. She had several unusual rules such as anyone giving their own orders was instantly beheaded, rapist pirates were put to death, and all booty had to be presented for group inspection prior to distribution. She was so powerful the Chinese government ceased attempts to quash the fleet and she negotiated a very generous amnesty agreement. Most of the pirates were pardoned and even attained jobs in government. She died surrounded by family at 69.