Why Did Chinese Concubines of the Past Need an Escort While Walking?
Have you ever wondered why Chinese concubines from ancient times always had an attendant by their side when walking? This act served a more significant purpose than merely projecting an air of authority and had several intriguing reasons behind it.
In recent palace intrigue dramas set during the Qing Dynasty, we often see concubines being escorted by servants when moving about the palace. But what is the reason behind this practice?
Why did concubines need to be escorted back to their quarters after spending the night with the emperor?
Even after receiving the emperor’s favor, concubines were required to be escorted back to their quarters. This was not a sign of special treatment but rather a strict rule within the palace walls. The concubines’ rest and sleep schedules were tightly managed to ensure the emperor’s well-being and not over-exert him.
In the deeply class-conscious society of feudal China, the distinction between social strata was starkly evident. The act of concubines being escorted by servants was part of the ceremonial rituals and a display of their status. This practice was not for everyday use but was reserved for outdoor excursions, emphasizing the difference in their ceremonial rituals and rank.
Concubines were always escorted back to their quarters after spending the night with the emperor.
Additionally, noble women during the feudal era often had bound feet, which made walking difficult and prone to falls. Hence, concubines usually had attendants aiding their movements. Their tiny bound feet not only hindered their mobility but also limited their ability to perform strenuous tasks. The high-born concubines, once inside the palace, rarely left the Forbidden City, so whenever they ventured out of their chambers, they would require the assistance of eunuchs or palace maids for convenience.
In ancient Chinese culture, small feet were considered aesthetically pleasing, leading many concubines to restrict their movement to maintain their delicate feet. Once inside the palace, they could not roam freely as they might have in the outside world, and when outdoors, they would have an entourage to support them and showcase their nobility.
In ancient Chinese culture, small feet were considered a beauty ideal, leading women to restrict their movement to maintain their tiny feet.
The shoes worn by concubines in the past also differed from modern footwear. Today’s high heels are designed for stability and ease of movement without assistance. In contrast, the shoes of Qing Dynasty concubines, known as “flower pot shoes,” had the heel positioned in the center, making it challenging to balance and prone to tripping. Thus, the presence of an escort helped prevent accidental falls.
Moreover, palace etiquette dictated that even the act of walking had to adhere to certain rituals to showcase nobility and distinguish royalty from commoners. The rules of conduct within the palace included guidelines on walking, and having an escort accompanied the concubines, exuding grace and femininity.
The delicate and dependent nature of these palace ladies was also meant to impress the emperor, as it was believed that the monarch favored a fragile appearance. Thus, their highly ritualized gait became part of showcasing their desirability to the emperor.
The Secret Behind the Emperor’s Bedchamber: Why Are Consorts Escorted Back to the Palace After Imperial Favors?
The mode of transport, being escorted, was a symbol of the status and power of the imperial concubine or beauty within the forbidden quarters.
Why the Ancient Well in the Forbidden City Remains Unexplored Despite its Treasured Contents
The Forbidden City, a majestic and enigmatic attraction, beckons visitors with its stunning aesthetics and a myriad of secrets veiled within its walls. This iconic destination, a treasure trove of historical mysteries, captivates the curious explorer seeking not just visual splendor but also the intrigue of untold tales.
How did ancient people educate their children using the “4 prohibitions” and “4 recommendations” method?
In fact, the educational methods used by ancient civilizations are still valuable today, and we must study and learn from them.
Who was the only imperial concubine in Chinese history to daringly file for divorce from the emperor?
This is the only concubine in the history of China who dared to file for divorce with the emperor.
Why does the emperor never choose one concubine for several consecutive nights despite his deep love?
Why is it that even though an emperor may favor a certain concubine, he is not allowed to spend consecutive nights with her?
