The Painful and Limiting Tradition of Foot Binding in Ancient China

Foot binding, also known as lutuo or jiazi, was a traditional practice in ancient China that involved the intentional breaking and binding of a young girl’s foot to achieve a desired aesthetic known as the “lotus foot.” This custom, which started during the Song dynasty in the 10th century, was quite popular and prevalent among upper-class women until it was officially banned by the Republican government in 1911.

The practice of foot binding began around the age of six or seven when a girl’s feet were pulled back and pressed against her calf, then wrapped tightly in bandages made of linen, silk, or paper. The bandages were kept tight for several weeks, with the feet being rewrapped as they grew. This painful process was then repeated several times over the course of several years until the foot was bound as tightly as possible, resulting in a deformed and crippled foot that resembled a “three-inch golden lotus.”

The ideal “lotus foot” was considered a symbol of beauty and femininity in ancient Chinese society. Small, delicate feet were seen as a desirable feature as they were believed to indicate obedience, meekness, and grace. In fact, women were often judged based on the size and shape of their feet, and those with larger or unbound feet were considered less attractive and feminine.

However, the practice of foot binding was not without its drawbacks. The long-term effects of this custom were devastating, causing long-lasting physical damage to the girl’s feet. The tight binding of the feet resulted in the bones being crushed, and the soft tissue and muscles being deformed, leading to nerve damage and lifelong health problems. Women with bound feet suffered from severe pain, arthritis, and mobility issues, having difficulty walking and carrying heavy objects. They also faced an increased risk of infection, gangrene, and other medical complications.

Additionally, foot binding was a limiting and restrictive practice that severely curtailed women’s mobility and freedom, leaving them dependent on others for their daily needs. The practice also perpetuated the idea that women’s primary role was to be submissive and obedient, reinforcing the traditional patriarchal social structure in Chinese society.

Despite its negative effects, the custom of foot binding persisted for centuries, with many women opting to continue the practice until it was officially banned by the Republican government. The ban was part of a larger effort to modernize and reform Chinese society, promoting women’s health, education, and social mobility. Today, foot binding is considered a barbaric and outdated practice, a testament to the historical and cultural complexities of ancient Chinese society.

In conclusion, foot binding was a painful and restrictive practice that was deeply ingrained in ancient Chinese society. As a traditional custom, it reflected the values and beliefs of the time, perpetuating gender norms and reinforcing traditional social structures. However, the long-term effects of this practice were devastating, causing lifelong health problems and limiting women’s mobility and freedom. While it has been officially banned, the legacy of foot binding remains, serving as a reminder of the complex and often contradictory nature of cultural traditions and customs.