With the Empress Dowager of China · Chapter
II: Personal Appearance of Her Majesty—A Chinese Repast—Boating explained
The chapter describes the second portrait sitting of the Empress Dowager Tze-Hsi, during which Katherine A.
What happens
The chapter describes the second portrait sitting of the Empress Dowager Tze-Hsi, during which Katherine A. Carl critically observes her appearance and notes her youthful looks. The Empress Dowager shows interest in the portrait's progress and arranges for Carl to have meals with the Ladies Yu-Keng and a young Manchu girl. The chapter also details a lavish Chinese meal and a boating excursion on the lake, where the Empress Dowager orders lotus flowers to be given to the ladies.
Themes in this chapter
Observation and Interpretation
Carl critically observes the Empress Dowager's appearance, noting her youthful looks and personal details, reflecting the theme of observation and interpretation.
Art and Representation
The chapter focuses on the portrait sitting, the process of painting the face, and the Empress Dowager's fascination with the representation on canvas.
Cultural Identity and Tradition
The description of the Chinese meal, dining customs, and the boating scene highlight cultural traditions and identity.
Characters to notice
- Empress Dowager Tze-Hsi
Gives a second sitting for the portrait; her personal appearance is described in detail; she smokes a water-pipe and cigarettes; she orders lotus flowers during the boating trip.
- Katherine A. Carl
Eager to work on the portrait; critically observes the Empress Dowager's appearance; begins painting the face; enjoys the Chinese meal and boating.
- Emperor Kwang-Hsu
Present with the Empress Dowager at the Audience Hall, but not otherwise featured.
- Lady Yu-Keng
Appointed by Her Majesty to keep Carl company during meals; acts as interpreter.
Key passages
“I was eager to be off the next morning, to have the promised long sitting from Her Majesty.”
I was excited to start the next day's portrait session with the Empress Dowager.
Shows Carl's enthusiasm for her work.
“Had I not known she was nearing her sixty-ninth year, I should have thought her a well-preserved woman of forty.”
If I hadn't known she was almost 69, I would have guessed she was a healthy 40-year-old.
Highlights the Empress Dowager's youthful appearance.
“The Chinese are passed masters in the culinary art, and the delicacies seen at good Chinese tables are fit for a repast of Lucullus.”
The Chinese are experts in cooking, and the dishes at fine Chinese tables are worthy of a feast for Lucullus.
Praises Chinese cuisine.