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Bound feet, China, early 1900s
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Bound feet, China, early 1900s
Bound feet, China, early 1900s. Date: early 1900s
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 32349562
© The Keasbury-Gordon Photograph Archive / Mary Evans
Binding Bound Feet Foot Foot Binding Footbinding
EDITORS COMMENTS
This haunting image captures a practice that was once widespread in China during the early 1900s - foot binding. The sight of these bound feet is both fascinating and disturbing, serving as a stark reminder of the extreme lengths to which women were subjected in the name of beauty and social status.
The delicate yet painful process of foot binding involved breaking and reshaping the bones of young girls' feet to achieve an unnaturally small size. This tradition, deeply rooted in Chinese culture for centuries, was believed to enhance a woman's gracefulness and femininity.
In this vintage lantern slide from The Keasbury-Gordon Photograph Archive Collection, we are transported back in time to witness firsthand the physical consequences endured by generations of Chinese women who underwent this excruciating practice. Despite its prevalence during this era, foot binding eventually fell out of favor as societal norms began to shift towards more progressive ideals.
As we gaze upon this historical artifact, we are reminded of the resilience and strength exhibited by women throughout history. It serves as a poignant reminder of how far we have come in challenging harmful beauty standards and embracing diversity and individuality.
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