The imperial court during the feudal era was a complex and hierarchical system, with the Emperor at its pinnacle. One of the intriguing aspects was the large harem consisting of countless concubines and beautiful women. A unique set of unspoken rules governed the interactions between the Emperor and his concubines, especially during intimate moments.
This text delves into the strict rules imposed on concubines during the Qing Dynasty, including the requirement to remain silent and expressionless during the Emperor’s visits. The exploration continues by examining the underlying reasons for these regulations, which aimed to maintain the Emperor’s image of authority and sophistication.
The life of concubines during this period was far from glamorous. They endured a stringent set of rules, including a peculiar protocol for intimate encounters. The prohibition on vocalizations during these moments was not formally documented but was an unwritten law that was strictly adhered to.
This rule was rooted in the stringent management of the Imperial Harem by the eunuchs, creating a tense and uncomfortable atmosphere during the Emperor’s visits. The Emperor, conscious of his image, wanted to avoid any embarrassing situations or displays of excessive desire. Thus, the rule was implemented to maintain his aura of power and refinement, with little regard for the well-being of the concubines.
Concubines Were Not Allowed to Wear Clothes During Imperial Visits
The process of selecting concubines for the Emperor’s visits was a meticulous one. It involved a system of flipping boards with the names of potential candidates, depending on the Emperor’s mood. Some concubines were favored frequently, while others waited for years or even decades for their turn.
The chosen concubine had to undergo a peculiar preparation ritual. She was required to disrobe entirely, wrap herself in a blanket, and be led by eunuchs to the Emperor’s chamber. Even when approaching the imperial bed, she had to follow strange rules, such as crawling under the blanket to reveal her legs when approaching the Emperor. After the encounter, she had to crawl backward out of the bed and was not allowed to stay the night with the Emperor.
This unusual rule of disrobing served a purpose—to protect the Emperor from potential threats. History witnessed instances of emperors being assassinated by concubines or palace maids. During turbulent political times, such as the Ming-Qing transition, this precaution became even more stringent, reflecting the volatile nature of the era.
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