Empress Dowager cixi’s Image: From Initial Fear of Photography to Portraits in American Museums
Empress Dowager Cixi, a pivotal figure in late qing Dynasty China, has long been the subject of debate regarding her appearance. Accounts from both Chinese sources and foreign observers offer contrasting perspectives, often intertwined with political considerations. However, a tangible record of her likeness now exists in the form of photographs and portraits, some of which are held in prominent American museums today.
Initial reactions to the newly introduced technology of photography were cautious. Cixi reportedly feared the flash, believing it to be frightening, and initially refused to be photographed. It was only after Yu Deling explained the principles of the camera that she gradually overcame her apprehension and embraced the medium, recognizing its potential for projecting power and prestige. She even commissioned photographs of herself portraying Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, images that continue to circulate today.
Foreigners who encountered Cixi also documented their impressions. American female painter Katherine Carr described her as “Beautiful, young and beautiful, and doesn’t look like a person in her seventies. If I didn’t know in advance that she was nearly 69 years old, I woudl definately think that this is a middle-aged woman in her 40s who is good at taking care of her.” American painter wars Hubo was surprised to find her more charming than her photographs, even experiencing “love at frist sight.” British officer Byckhaus, in his twenties, reportedly fell in love with the sixty-year-old Empress, documenting “sweet moments” in his memoir, “The Fall of Manchuria.”
however, the academic community generally views these flattering descriptions with a degree of skepticism, suggesting they were often influenced by political motivations or the pursuit of personal gain.
A meaningful exmaple of Cixi’s image reaching international audiences is the portrait painted by Catherine and displayed at the 1904 St. Louis World Expo. The portrait depicts Cixi as dignified and elegant, with notably slender and white fingers. While differing from her appearance in photographs, it aligned more closely with Western aesthetic preferences.This painting was later gifted by Cixi to US President Roosevelt and is currently part of the collection at the Smithsonian Museum of American Art.
Today, historical photographs and portraits offer a more direct glimpse into the appearance of this powerful woman, moving beyond rumor and speculation. These preserved images,including those housed in American museums,provide a valuable resource for understanding Cixi’s image and legacy.
(Source: Santi News Network SETN.COM – as indicated in the original prompt)
