The imperial harem of the Qing Dynasty had a strict and intricate system, resembling a small society. It was far from what is depicted in TV dramas.
The lives of concubines in the harem were difficult, with those of lower status only able to ensure the most basic livelihoods, let alone compete with each other. This was because under the ancient feudal system, social ranks were vastly different. Anything that surpassed one’s rank was considered rebellious.
The Emperor held the highest rank and established rules that others had to abide by. These rules also applied to the Emperor’s harem. The imperial concubines had clear regulations regarding their actions and even their diets. Anyone who violated these regulations would be punished.
Firstly, in terms of attire, the Empress, being at the highest rank in the harem, was the least restricted. She could choose any color of clothing, including bright yellow, like the Emperor. The privileges she enjoyed were greater than those of other concubines in the harem.
Other concubines had more restrictions on their clothing options. Even if they were favored by the Emperor, their status in the harem was lower, so they were not allowed to wear phoenix crowns or other elaborate hair accessories. Lower-ranked imperial consorts could only wear blue garments and silk flowers on their heads.
Regarding food, the Empress received a rich supply, second only to the Emperor. The food rations for other concubines were strictly defined: 5 liang of white sugar, 8 liang of sesame oil, 12 kilograms of pork, along with lamb or beef, and various fresh dishes. In fact, these quantities were meant for the entire household, so the actual amount per person would be slightly less.
For concubines of lower status, the daily food supply was much smaller compared to those of higher-ranking beauties. Their daily supplies included: 3 liang of sugar, 6 liang of sesame oil, 9 catties of pork. The amounts of lamb or beef and other fresh dishes were also significantly reduced compared to higher-ranking concubines.
Due to having fewer servants, lower-ranked consorts received less food. Concubines at lower ranks only received nearly 7 liang of meat and two liang of sugar per day. Compared to the higher-ranking consorts, these concubines had a much more austere life.
Even the daily rest routines of concubines had to adhere to regulations. It was quite challenging for them to pass through different halls to chat or watch performances to alleviate their boredom.
To alleviate their loneliness while confined in the Forbidden City, they could only bring in a few female companions to spend the day with. Their lives were far from glamorous as depicted in movies. They were like birds trapped in the Forbidden City, completely deprived of their freedom.
Why did eunuchs in the past get married even though they couldn’t have children?
There is a common misconception that eunuchs never get married, but the reality is that most of them do. The truth behind it is quite heartbreaking.
Silence rule forces Qing dynasty concubines to keep quiet during intimate activities
During the Qing Dynasty, imperial consorts were expected to maintain silence and refrain from making any noise while being attended to by the emperor.
Unspoken rule stops Qing dynasty concubines from making noise during intimate moments
During the rule of the Qing Dynasty, concubines were required to maintain absolute silence during their encounters with the emperor. They were forbidden from making any sound at all.
Unspoken rules that forced Qing dynasty concubines to stay silent while being inspected by the emperor
When in the presence of the emperor, all concubines must maintain silence. This is a mandatory rule, and no one is allowed to disobey.
Why does a concubine need to be led back to the palace after being favored by the emperor?
This was the rule in the ancient harem. Once they were favored by the emperor, the concubines were escorted back to the palace to rest.
