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Young Chinese woman with bound feet, China
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Young Chinese woman with bound feet, China
Vintage late 19th century photograph:
Young Chinese woman with bound feet, China
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23442196
Ethnicity Ethnographic Traveller Albumen
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This evocative vintage photograph captures the image of a young Chinese woman with bound feet, a practice deeply rooted in Chinese culture during the late 19th century. The exact decade is uncertain, but the use of albumen printing technique suggests an estimation between the 1880s and 1900s. The ethnographic significance of this image lies in its ability to transport us back in time, offering a glimpse into a bygone era. Bound feet, or "lotus feet," were a symbol of feminine beauty and elegance in Chinese society, believed to make women more desirable as marriage prospects. The practice involved binding the feet of young girls, often starting at a very early age, to prevent their bones from growing properly. This resulted in small, delicate feet, which were considered a desirable feature for women in Chinese society. The woman in this photograph exudes a sense of quiet dignity, her bound feet hidden beneath her traditional Chinese clothing. Her expression is serene, her gaze steady, suggesting a resilience and strength that defies the societal expectations of her time. The intricate details of her clothing and the subtle textures of the fabric are beautifully captured in the albumen print, adding to the overall ethereal quality of the image. This photograph serves as a powerful reminder of the rich cultural history of China and the complexities of its past. It invites us to reflect on the ways in which societal norms and values have shaped the lives of individuals throughout history, and the enduring power of tradition to both define and transform us.
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