Foot binding

Foot binding was a custom practiced in China for over a thousand years, from the 10th century until the early 20th century. It involved the application of tight bandages to the feet of young girls to modify the shape and size of their feet. The practice was considered a symbol of beauty and status, and it was believed to increase the marriage prospects of girls. However, foot binding resulted in lifelong disabilities for most of its subjects and has been widely criticized for its cruelty.

History

Foot binding is thought to have originated among court dancers in the Song Dynasty (960–1279), but it eventually spread to all social classes. The ideal foot, known as a "lotus foot," was about 3 inches long. Achieving this required breaking the arch of the foot, which caused immense pain and made walking difficult and painful.

Procedure

The process of foot binding typically began between the ages of four and nine, before the bones were fully developed. The feet were soaked in a mixture of herbs and animal blood to soften them, the toenails were cut back as far as possible to prevent in-growth and infection, and the feet were then wrapped in long bandages to hold them in a pointed shape. Over time, the wrapping became tighter and the shoes smaller as the heel and sole were crushed together. After two years, the process was complete, but the feet would require care for the rest of the girl's life, including regular washing and the careful cutting of ingrown toenails.

Cultural Significance

In Chinese culture, small feet were associated with beauty, femininity, and eligibility for marriage. The practice was not only a physical preparation for adulthood but also a social ritual that signified a girl's entrance into womanhood. Despite the pain and disability it caused, foot binding was a deeply entrenched tradition that was difficult to abolish.

Decline and Prohibition

The practice began to decline in the early 20th century, as Chinese reformers argued that it was backward and hindered China's modernization efforts. Foot binding was officially banned in 1912, following the fall of the Qing Dynasty. However, it continued in some rural areas until the People's Republic of China further promoted its eradication in the 1940s and 1950s.

Legacy

Today, foot binding is considered one of the most extreme forms of cultural beauty practices. It has left a lasting impact on Chinese society and culture, and the women who lived through the era of foot binding are a dwindling group. The practice has been the subject of much scholarly research, which examines its origins, motivations, and effects on women's health and social status.