Women's rights in Tang
The Tang dynasty was a time of relative freedom for women. Women of the Tang Dynasty were fortunate to live at a time characterized by open-mindedness and liberal ideas. Tang women also had the chance to learn history, politics, and military skills. At the founding of this dynasty, Princess Pingyang personally participated in battles, having led a detachment of women to help her father, Emperor Gaozu. Princess Taiping, daughter of Emperor Gaozong, twice suppressed mutinies inside the imperial court at critical times.Living within a relaxed social environment, and having an independent social status, the behavior of well-educated Tang women was obviously quite different from that of the women of former dynasties. They could drink wine to the limit of their capacity, and sing loudly in taverns; gallop through the suburbs with abandon; or even compete with men on the polo field. In the Tang Dynasty, women conducted social activities and carried on business independently.
Women's clothing and hair styles
Women's dress and personal adornments of the Tang Dynasty were outstanding in China's history. The clothing materials were exquisite, the structure was natural, graceful and elegant, and adornments were splendid.
This musician performs for a formal occasion at the palace. Her high-waisted full skirt is tied with a long, flowing sash. Ornaments and a bow decorate her hair.
|
This young woman`s long robe is held in place by a wide sash wrapped around her hips and securely knotted. Her hair has been divided into two sections, twisted, and fastened with barrettes.
|
This upper-class woman wears a strapless high-waisted dress under a transparent robe. The robe is secured by a knotted sash. She carries a fan, a popular accessory. Her hairstyle was known as “hundreds of flowers”. Hairpins and other implements were used to construct the elaborate hair arrangement. The curled toe slippers show a Persian influence.
|
These women of the imperial palace wear the popular dress of the day – a high-waisted dress with full, flowing skirt. The long scarves that they have draped over their shoulders flow down their backs. Te woman on the riht wears the “double bun: hairstyles both hairstyles are adorned with ornaments containing precious gems.
|