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Flashes from the Past: Four Beauties in Chinese History

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    What do Xi Shi, Wang Zhaojun, Diao Chan and Yang Guifei have in common? They are ancient Chinese women highly regarded for their beauty. Legend has it, in fact, they are ancient China's four most beautiful women, and among the nation's most significant historical figures. They are famous, or perhaps infamous, because they were able to influence emperors and kings, with whom they were involved. In some cases, they brought kingdoms, even dynasties, to their knees. For most of them, however, their lives ended in tragedy and/or mystery.
Ten Signs of Beauty in Ancient China


 
Concepts of beauty have changed throughout the various periods of China's history, but the following 10 characteristics have continuously been considered signs of beauty:
1. Lustrous black hair;
2. Hair loosely coiled on the head to create the appearance of greater height;
3. Finely shaped black eyebrows. During the Tang Dynasty, many women shaved their eyebrows, and then drew eyebrows with pigment;
4. Large, bright and expressive eyes;
5. Red lips and white teeth. In addition to beauty, this was considered a sign of good health;
6. Graceful fingers and arms. A pretty woman was expected to have well-shaped hands, with slim, soft fingers, and fair, fleshy arms;
7. Slender waist and fair skin. Throughout history, women have wanted a willowy figure;
8. Tiny feet and a light, elegant gait;
9. Dressing according to complexion, figure and disposition; and
10. A fragrant body. It's said a concubine of Qing Emperor Qian Long (1711-1799) gave off a natural fragrance.
 

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