An Imperial edict from the Xianfeng reign

拍品描述

Period Xianfeng period (1851-1862) Header Horizontal hand scroll, ink on woven brocade, with parallel text in Chinese and Manchurian. Description This imperial edict (gaōchì, 诰命) was issued in the very first month of the Xianfeng Emperor’s (咸豐, r. 1851–1861) reign. It grants the title of Lady of Rank (gaoming furen) to Lady Ze’erjiji, the 3rd successor wife of Baigui, former Provincial Administration Commissioner of Guangdong. The document recognizes her virtuous support of her husband’s duties and contributions to local administration, reflecting the Qing tradition of extending imperial favor beyond officials themselves to reward the moral conduct and stability of their households. As an artefact from the opening weeks of the Xianfeng era, it provides a compelling glimpse into the ceremonial and social values of mid-19th century China. Dimensions 409 x 32 cm Literature The imperial edict was a gaoming—an honorary certificate or appointment bestowed by the emperor upon officials and their families.

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