With the Empress Dowager of China · Chapters

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Chapter companions for With the Empress Dowager of China by Katharine A. Carl.

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Chapter 1
Dedication
Katherine A. Carl dedicates her account of her experiences at the Chinese Court to Sir Robert Hart, acknowledging his helpful encouragement and his long and faithful service to the country.
Chapter 2
Introductory
In April 1903, Katherine Carl receives a letter from Mrs. Conger proposing that she paint the Empress Dowager's portrait for the St. Louis Exposition. After official delays, Carl is presented to the Empress Dowager in August and begins her work at the Summer Palace. Despite the kindness she receives, Carl faces public misrepresentations of her experiences and decides to publish a truthful account, acknowledging the risk of offending Chinese sensibilities.
Chapter 3
With the Empress Dowager of China
This chapter provides a detailed account of the author's experiences and observations while living in the Forbidden City and serving as a portrait artist to the Empress Dowager Tze-Hsi. It describes the daily life, customs, and rituals of the Chinese court, offering insights into the Empress Dowager's personality, her relationship with the young Emperor Kwang-Hsu, and the political dynamics of the time. The narrative covers various events, including the Emperor's birthday festivities, the Empress Dowager's anxieties, and the author's interactions with other members of the court, all while reflecting on the cultural and historical significance of her unique position.
Chapter 4
I: My Presentation and First Day at the Chinese Court
On August 5th, Katherine Carl, accompanied by Mrs. Conger and her interpreter, travels from the American Legation in Peking to the Summer Palace for her first audience with the Empress Dowager Tze-Hsi. Upon arrival, she is escorted through the palace grounds and into the Throne-room, where she meets the Empress Dowager and Emperor Kwang-Hsu. The Empress Dowager, contrary to her fearsome reputation, greets Carl warmly and personally. Carl begins the portrait under challenging lighting conditions, but the Empress is pleased with the initial sketch and invites Carl to stay at the palace for further sittings. The day concludes with a luncheon and a theatrical performance.
Chapter 5
II: Personal Appearance of Her Majesty—A Chinese Repast—Boating
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.

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Dedication

Introductory

With the Empress Dowager of China

I: My Presentation and First Day at the Chinese Court

II: Personal Appearance of Her Majesty—A Chinese Repast—Boating