Emperor Qianlong was a great emperor in Chinese history. During his reign, the country prospered and culture and art reached its peak. However, one of his emotional entanglements is deeply remembered by people, and that is the story between him and the famous prostitute Ziwei Xiaoyanzi. This story not only involves the emotions between famous prostitutes and emperors in history, but also involves the political and moral issues of the Qing Dynasty.
Background of Ziwei Xiaoyanzi
Ziwei Xiaoyanzi, formerly known as Chen Yuanyuan, was a famous courtesan during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty. She was born into a poor family, but because of her beauty and talent, she soon became one of the most famous courtesans in the capital at that time. Her dancing postures were graceful and her singing voice was melodious. She was deeply loved and sought after by the nobles and dignitaries of the time.
The encounter between Qianlong and Ziwei Xiaoyan
During his reign, Emperor Qianlong often went to brothels in the capital to have fun. By chance, he met Ziwei Xiaoyanzi. At that time, Ziwei Xiaoyanzi was already one of the most famous courtesans at that time. Her beauty and talent deeply attracted the attention of Emperor Qianlong. Emperor Qianlong's admiration and love for her made her a noble concubine in the court.
Emperor Qianlong’s love and care for Ziwei Xiaoyan
Emperor Qianlong’s love and care for Ziwei Xiaoyan made her one of the most favored concubines in the court. Emperor Qianlong built a beautiful palace for her and gave her many valuable gifts and jewelry. Emperor Qianlong also built a beautiful mausoleum for her after her death to express his memory and respect for her.
Ziwei Xiaoyanzi was framed
However, Ziwei Xiaoyanzi’s good life did not last long. She was falsely accused of adultery with some at court and accused of treason. The accusations were without any evidence, but they put her in a difficult position. Eventually, she was forced to commit suicide.
Qianlong wanted Ziwei Xiaoyanzi’s innocence
Emperor Qianlong felt very sad and guilty about Ziwei Xiaoyanzi’s death. He believes that Ziwei Xiaoyanzi was framed and she is innocent. Therefore, he decided to clear her name and clear her name. He ordered a thorough investigation of her and found her innocent. In the end, he exonerated her and engraved her name on the stone tablet of "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" to express his memory and respect for her.