Wang Zhaojun

This image depicts Wang Zhaojun, one of the Four Beauties of Ancient China. She lived over 2,000 years ago, during the Western Han Dynasty.

The Story and the Legend

The Painter’s Betrayal: As a concubine of the Han Yuan Emperor, she refused to bribe the court painter, Mao Yanshou. In retaliation, he painted a portrait of her with an ugly mole, causing the emperor to never choose her to visit him.

The Diplomatic Marriage: To seal peace with the nomadic Xiongnu tribe, the emperor agreed to send a court lady to marry their leader, Huhanye. Believing the ugly portrait, he offered Wang Zhaojun.

The Imperial Regret: Upon seeing her in person for the first time on the day of departure, the emperor was impressed by her stunning beauty, but it was too late to back out of the agreement.

Symbolism in the Image

The illustration captures the iconic moment of her departure, known as “Zhaojun Chu Sai” (Zhaojun crosses the border):
The Instrument: She is often shown holding a pipa (a Chinese lute). According to legend, while traveling north, she played melodies so mournful that the geese flying above, mesmerized by her beauty and music, forgot to flap their wings and fell from the sky.

Her vibrant red cloak contrasts with the arid and cold landscape of the border, symbolizing her courage in leaving her homeland to secure peace.

Credit: The Claremont Colleges

Note: This image is copyright protected