Phoenix and its category-Which bird to depict and why?

Phoenix(凤凰feng huang) are a mythological birds in Chinese history  that reign over other birds.

Originally, Feng Huang are two different birds of same breed. Feng is the male and Huang is the female. Later, during Yuan Dynasty, the two words are combined to one Fenghuang as the king of birds. As the image of dragon is slowly accepted to describe male emperor,phoenix is then used to portray females empresses.  

5 types of phoenix: 五凤 

太史令蔡衡曰:凡像凤者有五色,多赤者凤,多青者鸾,多黄者鵷雏,多紫者鸑鷟,多白者鸿鹄-ref  夜航船 卷十七 四灵部 by 张岱 http://guji.artx.cn/article/28345.html?key=%E4%BA%94%E8%89%B2%E8%80%8C%E8%B5%A4%E8%80%85

Loosely translate:

“There are 5 types of bird look like phoenix:

With feather mainly in scarlet, it is a phoenix凤,

red phoenix image source: http://www.wenshen520.com/fenghuang
red phoenix
image source: http://www.wenshen520.com/fenghuang

 

mainly in Blue, it is a Luan鸾 

luan-blue phoenix image source: http://tieba.baidu.com/p/1974783035?see_lz=1
luan-blue phoenix
image source: http://tieba.baidu.com/p/1974783035?see_lz=1

 

mainly in yellow, it is a Yuan Chu鵷雏

yuanchu-yellow phoenix image source: http://www.baike.com/wiki/%E9%B9%93%E9%B6%B5
yuanchu-yellow phoenix
image source: http://www.baike.com/wiki/%E9%B9%93%E9%B6%B5

 

mainly in purple, it is a Yue Zhuo鸑鷟

yuezhuo-purple phoenix image source: https://wapbaike.baidu.com/item/%E9%B8%91%E9%B7%9F/5856413
yuezhuo-purple phoenix
image source: https://wapbaike.baidu.com/item/%E9%B8%91%E9%B7%9F/5856413

 

mainly in white, it is a Hong Hu 鸿鹄 ”

honghu-white phoenix image source: http://www.wulin.cn/uploads/2016/10/1715.jpg
honghu-white phoenix
image source: http://www.wulin.cn/uploads/2016/10/1715.jpg

In fact they are all categorized under phoenix, but only the scarlet phoenix is of the highest status and purest of them all.

There is other version of explanation regarding the types of phoenix. From <Classic of mountain and Sea>:There are three multicolored birds, one is Huang皇, one is Luan鸾, one is Feng凤 .《山海经》曰:有五采鸟三名,一曰皇鸟,一曰鸾鸟,一曰凤鸟。

Some versions say that Luan鸾 is actually the same breed with 凤 feng and 凰 huang, just it is not an adult bird. As Luan grows up, it will become Feng or Huang. Nevertheless, all these are fairy tales and there isn’t a scientific way to verify as they are made up of people’s imagination.  


——————————————————————————————————————

 

 

 

Here come back to my jewelries. I need to decide which bird to depict on each jewelry:

Choker as Queen Consort/Empress Consort–one bird 皇后

Ring as Imperial Noble Consort–one bird 皇贵妃

Cuff as Consort–4 birds 妃

Spectacle chain as Dame-6 birds 嫔 

Necklace pendant as Noble Lady-feather/wing 贵人

Hairpin as Xiunv-feather 秀女

There is no doubt that phoenix will be depicting Queen Consort皇后.

red phoenix image source: http://www.wenshen520.com/fenghuang
red phoenix
image source: http://www.wenshen520.com/fenghuang

As for Imperial Noble Consort皇贵妃, since it is also a single bird, there must be a different meaning of the bird, which is why I research on the breed of phoenix.  The position of Imperial Noble Consort is very close to Queen Consort, as such choosing a breed of phoenix that is inferior than pure phoenix would be ideal. However, if the phoenix only varies by colors, it is pretty difficult to reflect in the jewelry as the material would most likely be in the same color(unless adding crystals). I realize among the 5 breeds of phoenix, the white-color breed, 鸿鹄 hong hu, has both mythological meaning and daily-life meaning. the rest 3 breeds: 鸾luan, 鵷雏yuan chu , 鸑鷟yue zhuo are seldom heard nowadays and probably most Chinese cannot even read the words. 鸿鹄 Hong Hu can be explained as the type of bird that fly very high and very far, such as eagle, Dayan, swan, crane. It is in modern context used to describe people  with great ambitions. There is one idiom as 燕雀安知鸿鹄之志(How can swallows and sparrows understand the ambition of a Hong Hu), means “How can a common fellow read the mind of a great man?” As such, it is very suitable to use the bird hong hu on Imperial Noble Consort because she has the great ambition to defeat substitute the current Queen Consort.

honghu-non-mythological image source: http://www.o2123.com/news/show-689767.html
honghu-non-mythological
image source: http://www.o2123.com/news/show-689767.html

4 birds are used for the cuff as Consort妃. As it comes down to consort, the bird is less prestigious. The first bird came into my mind is peacock. Why? Because usually the 4 consorts are always openly or secretly competing with each other, on who is the prettiest, who wears the most luxuries, or who are more favored by the emperor. It is just like peacocks showing of their feather and attracting the opposite sex. Although the fanned peacocks are males in nature, this metaphor is still applicable to the consorts and their jealousy.

peacock image source: http://www.geimian.com/wx/43943.html
peacock
image source: http://www.geimian.com/wx/43943.html

6 birds are used for spectacle chain for Dame嫔. Cuckoos could be the choice. Cuckoo bird is famous for their zygodactyl feet and laying eggs in other birds’ nest or other members’s nest from the same breed. The cuckoo egg hatches earlier than the host’s, and the cuckoo chick grows faster; in most cases the chick evicts the eggs or young of the host species. The chick has no time to learn this behavior, so it must be an instinct passed on genetically. This instinct for competition and eliminating enemy reminds me of the rivals of concubines and their kids.

Fun fact:Cuckoos have various strategies for getting their egg into a host nest. Different species use different strategies based on host defensive strategies. Female cuckoos have secretive and fast laying behaviors, but in some cases, males have been shown to lure host adults away from their nests so that the female can lay her egg in the nest.[23] Some host species may directly try to prevent cuckoos laying eggs in their nest in the first place – birds whose nests are at high risk of cuckoo-contamination are known to ‘mob’ cuckoos to drive them out of the area.[24] Parasitic cuckoos are grouped into gentes, with each gens specializing in a particular host. There is some evidence that the gentes are genetically different from one another.

Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus) perched by birch leaves
Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus) perched by birch leaves

 

Noble Lady-unlimited vacancies, Thus I would only use wings in the necklace pendant. Wings means they are at a position to get ready to depart to a higher status. They are polishing themselves to get ready in the game.

 

Last but no least, Xiunv as a hair pin. Xiunv are merely the candidates for the beauty pageant. Their status is low and they might not end up the Emperor’s concubine. So their fate is unpredictable. I would like to use feather to depict them as feather is the most common thing in birds and it can be found in any bird. Whether it is a feather of phoenix or a feather of sparrow, depends on fate and their effort. Also,  the shape of feather is coherent to the shape of hair pin, which makes it easier for the design process.

 

To depict each breed of bird, I am not going to design in a very realistic way. The birds are just references to give each piece of jewelry better meaning.

 

Summary:

Queen Consort-1 phoenix, on choker

Imperial Noble Consort-1 Honghu, on ring

Consort-4 peacocks, on hand cuff

Dame-6 cuckoos, on spectacle chain

Noble Lady-wing shape necklace pendant

Xiunv-Feather shaped hair pin

Luan鸾鸟 http://baike.baidu.com/subview/760255/18999579.htm

Hong Hu鸿鹄 http://baike.baidu.com/view/339866.htm

Phoenix: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fenghuang

http://baike.baidu.com/subview/13935/5236022.htm#1

Cuckoo: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cuckoo

http://www.baike.com/wiki/%E9%B9%93%E9%B6%B5

Some references are from Chinese classics, poems and tales.

6 pieces of jewelries and their rankings

This post mainly discuss:

How to depict status through each piece of jewelry

and

What are the 6 jewelries I am making


To show the rankings/status of the jewelries, there must be some easy-to-understand symbols or metaphors.  Now let’s look back at the rankings of concubines in Chinese History.   Refer to previous post: https://oss.adm.ntu.edu.sg/tzhao002/chinese-hairtyles/

皇后 Queen Consort x 1

皇贵妃 Imperial Noble Consort x 1

贵妃 Noble Consort x 2

妃 Consort x 4

嫔 Dame x 6

贵人 Noble Lady x unlimited

常在 Attendant x unlimited

答应 Repliant x unlimited

Similar to officials, concubines also their rankings corresponding to political status. In ancient China, officials are ranked from 1 pin(一品) to 9 pin(九品), with 1 pin as the highest position and 9 pin the lowest. Traditionally, 1 pin is first class minister, equivalent to nowadays the prime minister, who is only inferior to the emperor. For concubines, 1 pin is Imperial Noble Consort, while Queen Consort being the female emperor in the ranking.  Pin system is very complicated as each pin can be further divided into sub rankings. More detailed information can be found here:(In Chinese) https://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E6%B8%85%E6%9C%9D%E5%AE%98%E8%81%B7%E8%A1%A8

The rankings of the concubines are:

Imperial 1 pin: 皇后 Queen Consort x 1

1 pin:皇贵妃 Imperial Noble Consort x 1

2 pin: 贵妃 Noble Consort x 2

3 pin: 妃 Consort x 4

6 pin: 嫔 Dame x 6

7 pin: 贵人 Noble Lady x unlimited

sub 8 pin: 常在 Attendant x unlimited

9 pin: 答应 Repliant x unlimited

This ranking is according tohttp://www.wenku1.com/news/9E484855626AA3AC.html . HOWEVER, each dynasty has its own titles and ranking system for the ladies ,even for the same title, it might have different ranking or pin in the system. Researching on it, I have also came across many variations of the system. The fact is there were SO MANY concubines and concubines-to-be in the palace that the number of positions became so complicated. As such, it is difficult to clearly define the ranking of a concubine unless she is the Queen Consort or Imperial Noble Consort.

SO here comes two sets of numbers in the system:1, the pin number; 2, the number of vacancies available for a specific title(1 Queen consorts, 2 noble consorts, 4 consorts, etc).

Using pin number can cause confusions as it is not clearly defined. On the other hand, using vacancy number can depict the preciousness of the position and show the competition at that status.

For example. Queen Consort is the highest, one and only position. With One and only major feature(most likely phoenix) indicate that she sits on the most precious seat reign the imperial household. While depicting a Consort status, 4 same or similar features can be put tgt on one piece of jewelry, symbolizing that at the position there are 4 ladies altogether competing and balancing the power. The more features are depicted, the lower the status is. It is like climbing the corporate ladder in modern society, the higher you get, the lonelier you  become.


About the birds.

There is a Chinese phrase百鸟朝凤 bai niao chao feng, means hundred birds worshiping the phoenix/hundred birds paying homage to the phoenix. Phoenix is the leader/king of birds. So to emphasize its importance, it is better to depict only one adult phoenix in the jewelry set, on the most important piece for the Queen Consort. For other pieces that prior to the ascending of Queen Consort, other species of birds can be portrayed. For minor positions, only feather or wing are necessary.

Artist: Qian Xingjian钱行健 124 x 232 cm Chinese ink on rice paper image source:http://auction.artron.net/paimai-art5013260236/
Hundred Birds Worshiping the Phoenix
Artist: Qian Xingjian钱行健
124 x 232 cm, year 1951
Chinese ink on rice paper
image source:http://auction.artron.net/paimai-art5013260236/

So to conclude the idea of this post:

1> Using the difference in bird species to distinguish the status

2>Using the number of birds to show the power and competition for each status. The higher the status, the less birds are depicted. The number goes according to the number of concubines allowed for such position in Chinese history.  1 Queen Consort,  4 Consorts, etc. 

6 pieces of jewelries are:(Most important to least important)

Choker x 1-Queen Consort

Ring x 1-Imperial Noble Consort

Cuff x 1-Consort

Spectacle chain x 1-Dame

Necklace pendants x 1-Noble Lady

Hair pin x 1-Xiunv

image1-2

Instead of depicting several characters in the story, now I am more focused on depicting only one character and her ladder to power. It is easier to understand and clearly demonstrate the ranking in the story.

3D printing-materials

There are many different types of materials for 3D printing, each has its owe characteristics, pros and cons. Here are some of the more common options:

reference: blog.tinkercad.com

 

image source: https://blog.tinkercad.com/materialsguide/  last access 15th Oct 2016
image source: https://blog.tinkercad.com/materialsguide/
last access 15th Oct 2016

Nylon:(Polyamide)

-Also called White, strong & flexible/ Durable plastic/ White plastic

-Strong and flexible plastic

-1mm minimum wall thickness

-Naturally white, but you can get it colored

-About 10 layers per 1mm

-Made from powder

-Alumide=Polyamide  + Aluminum

-Interlocking, moving parts possible


image source: https://blog.tinkercad.com/materialsguide/ last access 15th Oct 2016
image source: https://blog.tinkercad.com/materialsguide/
last access 15th Oct 2016

ABS:(Home printers)

-Strong plastic like legos are

-Made from spaghetti like filament

-Many color options

-about 3 layers per 1mm

-1mm minimum wall thickness


image source: https://blog.tinkercad.com/materialsguide/ last access 15th Oct 2016
image source: https://blog.tinkercad.com/materialsguide/
last access 15th Oct 2016

Resin:(Multiple options)

-Also called White resin, Black resin, Transparent detail/ White deail resin/ High detail resin, Transparent resin, Paintable Resin

-Rigid and a bit delicate

-Liquid Photopolymer cured with UV light

-White, black & transparent most typical colors

-About 10 layers per 1mm

-1mm minimum wall thickness


image source: https://blog.tinkercad.com/materialsguide/ last access 15th Oct 2016
image source: https://blog.tinkercad.com/materialsguide/
last access 15th Oct 2016

Stainless Steel:

-Very strong material

-Made with multiple steps or from powder directly

-Coloring options like gold and bronze plating

-About 6 layers per 1mm

-3mm minimum wall thickness


image source: https://blog.tinkercad.com/materialsguide/ 15th Oct 2016
image source: https://blog.tinkercad.com/materialsguide/
15th Oct 2016

Gold & Silver

-Strong materials

-Made from wax and then casted/processed in powder form

-About 10 layers per 1mm

0.5mm minimum wall thickness


image source: https://blog.tinkercad.com/materialsguide/ last access 15th Oct 2016
image source: https://blog.tinkercad.com/materialsguide/
last access 15th Oct 2016

Titanium:

-Strongest material

-Direct metal laser sintering

-About 30 layers per 1mm

-o.2mm minimum wall thickness

*note: sintering is the process of compacting and forming a solid mass of material by heating or pressure without melting it to the point of liquefaction(lose strength and behave like a liquid).  Sintering  happens naturally in mineral deposits or as a manufacturing process used with metals, ceramics, plastics, and other materials.


image source: https://blog.tinkercad.com/materialsguide/ last access 15th Oct 2016
image source: https://blog.tinkercad.com/materialsguide/
last access 15th Oct 2016

Ceramic:

-Rigid & delicate

-First ceramic is printed then surface is glazed

-Ceramic White, glaze typically white

-About 6 layers per 1mm

-3mm minimum wall thickness

-After printing , firing and glazing is still required


image source: https://blog.tinkercad.com/materialsguide/ last access 15th Oct 2016
image source: https://blog.tinkercad.com/materialsguide/
last access 15th Oct 2016

Gypsum:

-Also called Sandstone/ Rainbow ceramics/ Multicolor

-Rigid & delicate made from powder

-Naturally white, but you can get it with colors

-About 10 layers per 1mm

-2mm minimum wall thickness


Other materials includes Laywood, PLA, Aluminium and Cobalt derivstives(industrial grade 3D printing), and even paper.

 

For my jewelry product, it is obvious that metals are the best material for the appearance. They are strong and can be made into intricate designs as the minimum thickness is comparably small, and the layers per 1mm is comparably large.

However, in ADM, metal 3D printing is currently unavailable. As such, I would carry out my modelling in alternative material available that is best suitable to present my design.

Another aspect is the cost of the printing. Using silver and gold can be costly, and resulting in the high retail price of the product. Stainless steel is lower in cost, but the product would be more rigid.

CNC is also possible. As far as I know, ADM have metal cnc.

Jewelry Design Development–Who, What, Why

Accessories for Lee(Main character):

1, a Zan, long hair pin to secure hair bun. This accompanies her throughout her life, as a item of memory from her mother.

1.Early Ming Dynasty jade dragon head "Xi(happiness)" zan 2. Ming Dynasty Buddhist Monk's staff zan 3. Ming Dynasty gem embed butterflies and flowers zan image source: http://tieba.baidu.com/p/2708145136 last access 30th August 2016
1.Early Ming Dynasty jade dragon head “Xi(happiness)” zan
2. Ming Dynasty Buddhist Monk’s staff zan
3. Ming Dynasty gem embed butterflies and flowers zan
image source: http://tieba.baidu.com/p/2708145136
last access 30th August 2016

2, a Bi, comb-like accessory, marks when she becomes Noble Consort, which is the highest position she reaches when she is with the old Emperor.

1. Jade bi 2. Song Dynasty silver bi 3. Left: comb; right: bi Image source: http://tieba.baidu.com/p/2708145136 last access: 30th August 2016
1. Jade bi
2. Song Dynasty silver bi
3. Left: comb; right: bi
Image source: http://tieba.baidu.com/p/2708145136
last access: 30th August 2016

3, a ring, marks her return to the Palace as Imperial Noble Consort of the new Emperor.

4, a Qitou-like accessory, which will be made into a necklace(or maybe remains a hair accessory?), symbolizes her status of Empress Consort.

 

different types of Qi Tou image source: http://www.360doc.com/content/13/0913/16/4384112_314208939.shtml last access 8th September 2016
different types of Qi Tou
image source: http://www.360doc.com/content/13/0913/16/4384112_314208939.shtml
last access 8th September 2016

AND/OR

A choker. I recently found out that (structured)choker can instantly gives the formal, elegant, high class impression. It is like the structured collar of costume.

gigi hadid with diamond choker image source: http://www.youtubesub.com/news?id=79018&Gigi-Hadid-makes-bold-choice-red-trouser-suit-arrives-2016-iHeartRadio-Music-Video-Awards last access 3rd October 2016
gigi hadid with diamond choker
image source: http://www.youtubesub.com/news?id=79018&Gigi-Hadid-makes-bold-choice-red-trouser-suit-arrives-2016-iHeartRadio-Music-Video-Awards
last access 3rd October 2016
Gigi Hadid with diamond choker image source: http://www.youtubesub.com/news?id=79018&Gigi-Hadid-makes-bold-choice-red-trouser-suit-arrives-2016-iHeartRadio-Music-Video-Awards last access 3rd October 2016
Gigi Hadid with diamond choker
image source: http://www.youtubesub.com/news?id=79018&Gigi-Hadid-makes-bold-choice-red-trouser-suit-arrives-2016-iHeartRadio-Music-Video-Awards
last access 3rd October 2016
Rihanna in diamond choker image source: http://www.stylebistro.com/lookbook/Rihanna/FaSppPW4MmE/Jewelry last access 3rd October 2016
Rihanna in diamond choker
image source: http://www.stylebistro.com/lookbook/Rihanna/FaSppPW4MmE/Jewelry
last access 3rd October 2016
Amala Paul in Jos Alukka diamond choker image source: http://southindiajewels.com/designs/diamond-choker/page/2/ last access 3rd October 2016
Amala Paul in Jos Alukka diamond choker
image source: http://southindiajewels.com/designs/diamond-choker/page/2/
last access 3rd October 2016

the Old Emperor

He is an outstanding emperor who rules his country very well. I am thinking of a pair of cuff links for him as they are specifically for shirt(formal attire), like emperor who is always managing states affairs. cuff link also allows great variety of designs to be added to it. Not all men use cuff links and for those who use it, it instantly gives the impression that this man pays attention to what he wears and the details of the attire.

cuff link image source: http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_6af86ed20102v14h.html last access 3rd October 2016
cuff link
image source: http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_6af86ed20102v14h.html
last access 3rd October 2016

Young Emperor/Prince Lihong

Young Emperor is actually’controlled’ by Lee, which means he does not have the real power and ability to make all decisions. I am thinking of making a ring for him, as Lee also has a ring for her when she is married to him. The Emperor’s ring may comes in hollow design, or something like the crown shape with no gem embed, to represent his situation. It can be worn by males as modern accessory

 


Xiunv Ou(Lee’s best friend)

I am thinking of an eyeglass chain/glasses chain/spectacle chain to secure spectacle. It is something most people see as extra, but can be very useful at times. Originally I used bracelet for her in the story, but on second thought I decided to change to this. It can be written as necklace/chain in the story, and in reality used as eyeglasses chain.

 

eyeglasses chain image source: http://irecommend.ru/content/ranshe-tetenki-kassirshi-privyazyvali-ochki-na-verevochki-teper-my-klevyi-ne-zaezzhanyi-akse last access 3rd October 2016
eyeglasses chain
image source: http://irecommend.ru/content/ranshe-tetenki-kassirshi-privyazyvali-ochki-na-verevochki-teper-my-klevyi-ne-zaezzhanyi-akse
last access 3rd October 2016


Empress Consort of Lihong(who was killed by Lee)

Xiunv Zhao(Arrogant concubine of the old Emperor who was abandoned)

Lee’s servant 

A necklace pendant for each of them, because they are replaced by other people and only plays a trivial part in the story.

Characters Summary

Here is a simple summary of the main characters appeared in my story.

image1-2

Pardon my handwriting..

The main character Lee:

Xiunv(13)–>Noble Lady Lee(13)–>Dame Lee(14)–>Consort Lee(17), gave birth to a son, who died–>Buddhist Nun(20), after Emperor’s death–>Imperial Noble Consort Lee(23), of the new Emperor Lihong–>Empress Consort(31)

 

Supporting Characters:

Prince Lihong–>Emperor(20)

Xiunv Ou(Lee’s best friend)

Lee’s Servant(had a crush on the Prince)

 

Other characters:

Xiunv Zhao–>Noble Lady Zhao–Dame Zhao

Empress Consort Wu(of the old Emperor)

Emperor(Father of Lihong)

Empress Consort of Lihong, who was killed by Lee.

 


Not all characters are worth having a piece of jewelry. I am thinking of designing a few pieces for Lee, and one piece for each selected character.

 

Update of Jewelry Design Idea

This is a short write up after week 6 consultation, to update my design direction.

My direction now is to design a set of jewelry that go according to the stories I wrote. The design I have for now is pretty complicated and resembles the Chinese antiques. However, my next aim is to simplify the design into something more modern, and yet capture the essence of the characters and the status.

Some initial sketches:

Few types of Qitou
Few types of Qitou
Qitou(inverted for the purpose of possible jewelry designs) With elaborated pattern of phoenix, peonies, in gold and acarlet,  is suitable for the position of Empress Consort.
Qitou(inverted for the purpose of possible jewelry designs)
With elaborated pattern of phoenix, peonies, in gold and acarlet, is suitable for the position of Empress Consort.
Dian with elaborated designs of Phoenix and jade, is suitable for Imperial Noble Consort
Dian with elaborated designs of Phoenix and jade, is suitable for Imperial Noble Consort
Qitou with floral design, the feather of Phoenix. Suitable for Noble Consort,  Consort, etc.
Qitou with floral design, the feather of Phoenix. Suitable for Noble Consort, Consort, etc.
Qitou with lotus flower design,  Suitable for lower class concubines such as Noble Lady.
Qitou with lotus flower design, Suitable for lower class concubines such as Noble Lady.

 

These designs are, however, too complicated for both modern aesthetics and production. So simplifying the designs and reserve the “gist and gesture” would be my next step.

My Story–Part 6, The Empress Consort

Another 5 years has passed. Our son is almost 7 years old now. He is as smart as his mother, and as beautiful as her mother. My Empress Consort and Imperial Noble Consort have not creating troubles for me and have kept family affairs very organized. Probably because Lee is more decisive and My Empress Consort Wong is more obedient and soft-tempered. Lee has helped Empress Consort a lot, if not for her, the Empress Consort might get a lot of disrespect due to her quiet nature.

I have health problem since young, sometimes I am too weak to read all the memorials from officials, and Lee will help me read, even write the comments according to my will. Over time, I would allow her to comment on her own will, and inform me afterwards the issue. She has guided me about states affairs even before I became the emperor anyway.

from drama Empresses of the Palace image source: http://ent.qianzhan.com/detail/150331-d14fb154.html last access 15th September 2016
from drama Empresses of the Palace
image source: http://ent.qianzhan.com/detail/150331-d14fb154.html
last access 15th September 2016

Everything goes well until one day, a devastating news came to me—my Empress Dowager had a sudden death. There was no signs, i was till talking to her last week. The Imperial doctor says she died of disease. Although there was not much love between me and her, she has always been a good wife and a good Empress Consort. She made no mistakes and has always been supportive of me. What I can do for her now is giving her a decent funeral, and take care of her family.

The death of Empress Consort Wong leaves the position empty, and as everyone expects, Lee is soon promoted to the new Empress Consort. She has what it takes to be in that position, furthermore, she has given birth to my only son. No one can doubt her status.

from drama Empresses of the Palace image source: http://www.rxdjt.cn/a/2016/0727/136354.html last access 15th September 2016
from drama Empresses of the Palace
image source: http://www.rxdjt.cn/a/2016/0727/136354.html
last access 15th September 2016

As former Empress Consort just passed away, the ceremony for the new Empress Consort Lee’s titling is kept simple. Nevertheless Lee still has her phoenix crown as custom. The gold phoenix is so huge compared to her slim figure, as if it is pressing  her down. Lee has reached 31 years old. She walks slowly but steadily in her heavy costume. her Bianfang is embed with coral. She looks powerful—and she IS. Sometimes I feel she is more powerful than me, she is the one connecting with the officials and suppressing the royal clans. She is the one telling me the policies I should implement for the best of my country. Sometimes I feel she is the real Emperor, I am only her assistant. Maybe all these years I never change, I am still the young prince who cares no more than my paintings and music, and my loved ones.

Gold butterfly double joy Bianfang image source: http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_513f5e930100qxjf.html last access 8th September 2016
Gold butterfly double joy Bianfang
image source: http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_513f5e930100qxjf.html
last access 8th September 2016
Qing Dynasty girl with Bianfang in her hair image source: http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_4ed625590100c8gw.html last access 8th September 2016
Qing Dynasty girl with Bianfang in her hair
image source: http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_4ed625590100c8gw.html
last access 8th September 2016

Few months later, a servant came to me and report that she saw something the night before Empress Consort Wong’s death. She says that she accidentally saw Ou, Lee’s best friend, secretly put something into Empress Consort’s food. She wasn’t sure what she put but after that night, Empress Consort Wong died a sudden death. She was so scared that she would be involved so she has kept the secret until now.

Can’t deny that the idea came to my mind after the death of Wong, but I chose not to believe. Even if it was Lee who poisoned Wong, I can’t afford to punish her now as I need her to assist me in states affairs, and the country can’t afford to lose two Empress Consort in few months.

However…Since the servant has come to report, I have to do something about it. I can’t declare war with Lee, and I don’t want to. AI still love her although she is not the Noble Lady Lee I knew anymore. I need to keep the peace between us.

from drama Empresses of the Palace image source: http://blog.ifeng.com/article/24840520.html last access 15th September 2016
from drama Empresses of the Palace
image source: http://blog.ifeng.com/article/24840520.html
last access 15th September 2016

After some thoughts I decide to take investigation of the incident, which is just a disguise in my plan. I then blame everything on Ou, who ‘wants to help her best friend on her own will, while Lee has no idea about her plot’. I gave her death punishment. I know Lee would be heartbroken–but she won’t object my decision as she knows it is the only way to keep her safe. Ou, on the other hand, is truly a good friend of Lee and has taken all the responsibilities on herself. So I decide to take care of her family after her death. Before her last day, she takes down her necklace and gives it to Lee, as a memento for her.

from drama Empresses of the Palace image source: http://blog.ifeng.com/article/24840520.htmlblog.udn.com/rosylovesyou/7066560 last access 15th September 2016
from drama Empresses of the Palace
image source: http://blog.ifeng.com/article/24840520.htmlblog.udn.com/rosylovesyou/7066560
last access 15th September 2016

Instead of saying the country is under my reign, I’d rather say it is Lee’s reign. She has organized everything so orderly and nicely. The royal clans have submitted countless memorials to point arrows at her, but without her, I can’t lead the country well. Maybe after my death, she will guide the young emperor as well, or even take full control…Still I can’t order her death because I need her to fight with the royal clans and some other Officials who are trying to control the young emperor. The power need to be balanced…Until one day the new emperor is capable enough to handle all the issues on his own.

But for now, she has the power, and my love, to keep her status safe and sound.

My Story-Part 5, The New Imperial Noble Consort

After three years of mourning, Lee is 23 years old already. I decided to bring her back to the Imperial family-not as my father’s widow, but as MY consort. I know there will be a lot of discussions and objections, but I don’t really care about them. I am the Emperor and as long as I handle the states matter right, no one can question my reign.

I am bringing her back…She used to be my father’s Noble Consort, I want to give her something more than that, to show her that she will be having a better life with me. As I already have a wife, and she has become the Empress Consort, the highest position available now is Imperial Noble Consort. That would be the title for Lee. Finally she is my woman.

from drama Empresses of the Palace image source: http://sn20140209.pixnet.net/blog/post/204181012-%E3%80%8A%E5%BE%8C%E5%AE%AE%E7%94%84%E5%AC%9B%E5%82%B3%E3%80%8B%E2%80%94%E9%82%A3%E5%94%87%E4%B8%8A%E7%9A%84%E7%B4%85%E9%98%BF%EF%BC%8C%E6%9C%89%E5%A6%82%E8%A1%80%E6%9F%93 last access 14th September 2016
from drama Empresses of the Palace
image source: http://sn20140209.pixnet.net/blog/post/204181012-%E3%80%8A%E5%BE%8C%E5%AE%AE%E7%94%84%E5%AC%9B%E5%82%B3%E3%80%8B%E2%80%94%E9%82%A3%E5%94%87%E4%B8%8A%E7%9A%84%E7%B4%85%E9%98%BF%EF%BC%8C%E6%9C%89%E5%A6%82%E8%A1%80%E6%9F%93
last access 14th September 2016

On the day of ceremony,  she dresses up in the ceremonial attire. She reminds me of my mother who passed away decade ago. My mother used to be an Imperial Noble Consort of my father. She is wearing a Dianzi钿子, with phoenix pattern on one side, and flower patter on the opposite. Pearls, gems, jade..anything nice and luxurious I would give her to show everyone her status, and my love for her. The tassels move as she walks, making her even more demure and elegant. She can’t wear scarlet dress as she is not the Empress Consort. Her dress is bright yellow, the brightest yellow can be as she is the highest among all concubines.

Now she is my Imperial Noble Consort. It is like my dream come true. I respect my Empress Consort as well, she is kind and understanding, and she never show any objection in the new Imperial Noble Consort. But we were married because my father asked me to do so, not because I liked her. Anyway that is how marriage is usually arranged, by parents. Nevertheless, she will be kept as my Empress Consort, and I will provide Lee whatever I can to make her life no less than the Empress Consort.

from drama Empresses of the Palace image source: http://www.1-123.com/Article/Z/zen/zhenhuan/159860.html last access 14th September 2016
from drama Empresses of the Palace
image source: http://www.1-123.com/Article/Z/zen/zhenhuan/159860.html
last access 14th September 2016

I hope my Empress Consort and Imperial Noble Consort can get along well.

The following year, Lee is expecting our first child. I was over the moon!I almost wanted to immediately assign the kid as the successor, but I know I shouldn’t. This time, Lee gave birth to the child smoothly and the kid is kept safe after birth. I will not let Lee lose a son ever again.

In the Imperial household, having a son is like having a amulet, Lee’s status is unparalleled as my Empress Consort did not have any kid with me. Meanwhile, Lee has wide connection with the noble man in the court, as we planned before. We have been suppressing all the royal clans and promoting capable peoples who do not have strong family background.Meritocracy is more emphasized.

I have to admit that I can’t handle all the state affairs without Lee, although I am not supposed to let my concubine to learn about any court issues. She is more vigilant, decisive, and farsighted than me. She can always think of a comprehensive solution faster and better than me.

from drama Empresses of the Palace image source: http://shows.cts.com.tw/shows_prog/drama/26.html#.V9lsKNl97mg last access 14th September 2016
from drama Empresses of the Palace
image source: http://shows.cts.com.tw/shows_prog/drama/26.html#.V9lsKNl97mg
last access 14th September 2016

Lee has a best friend Ou, who was my father’s Xiunv but never get selected as a concubine. I allow her to visit Lee as she wishes, and sometimes stay over at Lee’s palace. Lee also has a servant from her family that has been with her since she first came to Palace. It is good that Lee has some real friends in this lonely and complicated place.

Another year passed, our son is one year old now. One day, Lee approached me and asked for a favor–she wants me to appoint marriage for her servant. I permitted her request and appoint her servant to a high rank Official’s son. Soon after which, her servant is sent out of the Palace to her new home. On the day of departure, Lee gave her a gold bracelet and some money personally.  After that day, I have never seen her again. I never ask Lee why she wants to send the servant away, maybe she feels that the servant has done her duty and deserves a better life afterwards, or maybe asked Lee to do her the favor—I am not sure, as long as Lee is happy about it.

(what happened is that Lee realized her servant always dolls up whenever she knows that she is going to meet the Emperor. Slowly Lee found out that her servant secretly wants so attract Emperor’s attention and is fantasizing about becoming a concubine herself. Lee can not tolerate the servant’s betrayal so she request to send her out of the Palace. Marriage is just an excuse to kill the servant’s hope. Lee still shows mercy to the servant as she as accompany her so decade, and thus find her a good family)

from drama Empresses of the Palace image source: http://tieba.baidu.com/p/1559085486 last access 14th September 2016
from drama Empresses of the Palace
image source: http://tieba.baidu.com/p/1559085486
last access 14th September 2016

Lee assists Empress Consort on daily affairs in the Imperial household. Although I continue to have new concubines from the triennial pageant, I never neglect Lee because of the new girls. As an emperor I have to take more concubines so to give birth to more children, and thus will have more choice in selecting my successor. It is a bless and a curse. I hope the rivalries between my children and my concubines next time wont be so cruel.

My Story-Part 4 Succeeding to the Throne

Lee told me I need to gain my father’s trust in a very discreet way, so that my siblings wouldn’t suspect anything or point their arrows to me. At the same time, I should show no interests in competing for the throne—until the very last moment where I supposed to act reluctant but no choice in accepting the grant. All is to protect me, and to ensure the plan is carried out smoothly.

from drama Empresses of the Palace image source: http://www.tvzn.com/11088/juqingjieshao/165703.html last access 14th September 2016
from drama Empresses of the Palace
image source: http://www.tvzn.com/11088/juqingjieshao/165703.html
last access 14th September 2016

At the end of every month, my father would meet me and test my study progress. I never liked that day as I always put little effort in things that I was not interested in. This month, as usual, my father came again. He brought along some of his states report and was going to question me about some current issues. Little did he know, that I have already memorized by heart all the answers of the possible questions, as Lee taught me. Lee also told me that these answers were not the perfect answers and that my father surely would have something to add on. However, these answers were good enough to impress my father of my progress without overdoing it. As expected, my father asked me about the flood in the south, and I replied him with what I memorized–lowering tax, send refugee supply, etc . He was very impressed, that I started to pay attention to states issues and started to have my opinions. Of course I didn’t, it all was Lee. And all these my brothers didn’t know.

from drama Empresses of the Palace image source: http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_741d8de50102vfjl.html last access 14th September 2016
from drama Empresses of the Palace
image source: http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_741d8de50102vfjl.html
last access 14th September 2016

The second time was my fathers birthday. Every year, all the princes would prepare a gift for father to wish him longevity. All along I have given the task to my servant and ask them to get the task done. This year, Lee was my adviser. I thought she was going to present something very expensive or rare, but she didn’t. She told me that a lot of things need to be considered. If we prepare a very expensive gift, it would be suspicious as I am not supposed to be so wealthy even though I am a prince, furthermore, as an Emperor, my father would not be lacking expensive things. If we present something is very rare, that means we have put a lot of effort in preparing the gift, which should not be the main focus of a prince as we are supposed to be studying and worrying about states issues. The gift must be of appropriate amount of effort, value, and most importantly, shows love to my father. In the end, Lee chose an unused item of my own—a jade flute. My father loves music as well, but not as  much as I do. The jade flute was a treasure of mine although it is not very expensive. I had kept it nicely as my most favored item. Lee says giving my most favorite item to my father is the best way to show my love as a son to a father, this gift was definitely not a competition with my brothers, but my father would love it very much. As Lee had foreseen, my brothers have researched on my fathers hobbies and had presented the luxurious, rarest item they could find. But father seemed to be happiest when I present my humble gift. Lee said, nothing should be overdone. Meanwhile, my brothers regarded me as childish and naive.

Slowly, under the guidance of Lee, my father had increasing interests on me. I suppose he still wasn’t considering appointing me as the emperor to be, but things were promising. Meanwhile, Lee also helped the Noble officials gained my fathers trust, so they could participate more in important discussions and their opinions are heard. All was happening secretly until one year before my father’s passing away.

Father knew that his health was declining, and assigning the successor was of the top priority. Official Lin, who is an alliance of us, was giving suggestion to my father. My father surely wasn’t aware of what was happening among me, Lee and him. Official Lin advised my father the possibility of considering me as the successor, the reasons were  similar to what Lee told me, that I was the only son of him that will let the brothers live peacefully for the rest of their life. And given that my knowledge and study has been improving, I should no longer be put out of the choices of candidates. That was, probably, the first time my father had this idea in his mind. That was the moment of change.

I did not know what Lee had told my father in the last one year, she must have done it so subtlety and carefully as women are not supposed to take part in any court affair. All I knew is that my father has kept his decision until the last moment of his life, maybe to prevent unnecessary rivalries among the brothers.

Everyone was kneeling outside my fathers bedroom, until his last breath. In the end, I became the new Emperor. So now I can save my brothers and most importantly, Lee…I suppose?

from drama Empresses of the Palace image source: http://www.wanhuajing.com/d227448 last access 14th September 2016
from drama Empresses of the Palace
image source: http://www.wanhuajing.com/d227448
last access 14th September 2016

It is now the period for nation-wide mourning, people are to wear black and white clothes, and are not allowed to cut their hair, or organizing any type of celebration event. Lee is in her mourning attire as well, simple, minimal decoration, minimal makeup and accessories. Her accessories are all silver and white now-but she still shines in the crowd. According to customs, after the death of the Emperor, all concubines are to mourn for their husband and are to either become Buddhist nun, or stay lonely in the Palace for the rest of their life . However, I won’t let Lee be like that for long. After I consolidate my reign, I will bring her back… soon.

from drama Empresses of the Palace image source: http://rosetruth.pixnet.net/blog/post/111933639-%E5%BE%8C%E5%AE%AE%E7%94%84%E5%AC%9B%E5%82%B3%E8%A7%92%E8%89%B2%E7%9F%AD%E8%A9%95 last access 14th September 2016
from drama Empresses of the Palace
image source: http://rosetruth.pixnet.net/blog/post/111933639-%E5%BE%8C%E5%AE%AE%E7%94%84%E5%AC%9B%E5%82%B3%E8%A7%92%E8%89%B2%E7%9F%AD%E8%A9%95
last access 14th September 2016

My Story-part 3-The New Emperor To Be

The three years before my fathers death, Lee contacted me through one of her servants. After meeting her, she told me that she wants to form alliance with me, in fighting with other princes and Officials. It was totally unexpected as I am the least possible person to be appointed as the new emperor. My father had never put hope on me as an emperor, neither did all my siblings. Furthermore, I myself had no ambition in the throne, or any intention to fight with my brothers. I was just weak, carefree, non-self driven..basically, I was still a kid inside. I did not know what Lee saw in me.

She looked so pale and unwell, the only same thing she had was that Zan簪 from her family. She dressed up very simply and low-profile. ” Li Hong”, she called me by name. It was the first time she actually talked to me face to face. I knew I only had a crush on her, it was nothing serious–in fact, it was not supposed to be happen. and I had no idea if she knows about it.

 

“Li Hong, I know you probably do not remember who I am” Of course I did, how not to remember her.”I had plan that is daring, and dangerous. I am telling you this because I trust that you are a kind and good kid, and I know you always wanted the best for all people. I am not forcing you into this plot, you can reject me if after hearing the plan you feel strongly against it.” She looked into my eyes,”We are going to make you the next emperor, I know you might have hundreds of questions in your mind now, but let me explain to you. You can be no less familiar with the infighting for throne and power. Your brothers are not like you, they crave for the title, and will eliminate anyone threatens their authority. Which is why if, anyone of your brother becomes the next emperor, he will kill the rest competitors. Your father probably is worrying about what would happen after his passed down his throne, that is why he never openly decide who is the crown prince.”

from drama Empresses of the Palace image source: http://news.163.com/12/0429/11/808N8LT400014AEE.html last access 14th September 2016
from drama Empresses of the Palace
image source: http://news.163.com/12/0429/11/808N8LT400014AEE.html
last access 14th September 2016

“HOWEVER, you are different. Your brothers never see you as a competitor, because they never expect you to fight against them for the throne, they see you as a little brother in the family. Your father did not see you as a future emperor so far, that is why you can survive and live peacefully for so many years in the palace.” She then stepped backwards and asked me firmly”Think about, if you are the future emperor, will you ever kill any of your brothers?” I shook my head, she continued, “The possibility of your brothers usurping the throne is much lower as well because they still have the brotherhood with you in their hearts.”I could not find any word to reply her at that moment, and I didn’t know what I wanted to say. So she carried on, “Of course, only you and me is not enough to even start the fight. My family is not a strong backing, and you have never expand your connection in the court. Currently, the politics is greatly controlled by the royal clans, Empress Dowager and relatives. We cant rival with them for now. We can only develop our own partisan. We can start from the minority group in the court that get into politics through hardworking, studying and Imperial examination. They are capable people who are always suppressed by the royal clans, and thus can never climb to high positions in the court. If we form alliance with this group of people, they will be loyal to you, and if we ever get power, it is beneficial for the nation’s future as the royal clans will not have the monopoly over politics anymore.”

“But I DON’t WANT TO BE THE EMPEROR.” I replied her, “I know nothing about politics, about states affairs, and my father never put hope on me. How to convince him, I cant’t even convince myself.”

from drama Empresses of the Palace image source: http://zj.sina.com.cn/news/s/2013-01-21/153953204.html last access 15th September 2016
from drama Empresses of the Palace
image source: http://zj.sina.com.cn/news/s/2013-01-21/153953204.html
last access 15th September 2016

“Then it is time for you to start learning! You are the son of the Emperor and you can never escape the obligation. You are expected to be outstanding and well taught in politics. If your country is in crisis you are supposed to step out and contribute. You don’t want to see your brothers kill each other do you?”

Maybe she was right, but I still had no confidence in all these, or maybe I was just not ready to be involved in the rivalry.

She seemed to know what I am thinking, so she added”You don’t need to worry about how to deal with or impress your father, I will teach you. In the mean time, I need to gain back his attention, so it is more reliable for the noble mans to form alliance with me and you. A favored Noble Consort with a prince, that would convince them. AND…” She came closer to me, “It was the only way I can survive in the Palace. You want to save ME, don’t you?”

Well, I found myself in no position to reject her. I did want to save her, I liked her so much. I did not really care about the throne or even the country, but I cared about her.

So the plot began…And I had the mission to impress my father. I was not as smart as Lee, she seemed to be planning about a lot of things, and I only need to do what she asked me to do.

Soon Lee had gain back my father’s interests. I guess it was not hard for her, as she was still so pretty and attractive, as long as she dolls up and try to please, I believe no man won’t fall prey.  She was still the Noble Consort Lee, but everyone knew she can be an Imperial Noble Consort if she ever opens her mouth to my father.

from drama Empresses of the Palace image source: http://ent.ifeng.com/tv/news/mainland/detail_2011_11/22/10818300_0.shtml last access 15th September 2016
from drama Empresses of the Palace
image source: http://ent.ifeng.com/tv/news/mainland/detail_2011_11/22/10818300_0.shtml
last access 15th September 2016