With the Empress Dowager of China cover art

With the Empress Dowager of China

With the Empress Dowager of China

Written by: Katharine Carl
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 Step into the world of the Chinese Imperial Court through the eyes of Katharine Carl, an American artist who, in 1903, was granted a rare invitation to paint Cixi, the Empress Dowager of China. For nine months, Carl resided in stunning palaces, capturing not only the likeness of the Empress but also the vibrant customs and intricate politics of the royal household. As she navigated life among the elite, Carl found Cixi to be a blend of grace and intelligence, a ruler whose legacy remains complex and controversial. Initially hesitant to share her insights, Carl felt compelled to correct misrepresentations in the press, leading to the publication of her candid account in 1906. Her portrait of Cixi now resides in the Smithsonians Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, a testament to a unique cultural exchange and a moment in history.Copyright Science Stories Political Science Politics & Government Science Social Sciences World
Episodes
  • 035 - Chapter XXXIV Finishing and sending off the portrait

    035 - Chapter XXXIV Finishing and sending off the portrait
    Mar 10 2026
    Step into the world of the Chinese Imperial Court through the eyes of Katharine Carl, an American artist who, in 1903, was granted a rare invitation to paint Cixi, the Empress Dowager of China. For nine months, Carl resided in stunning palaces, capturing not only the likeness of the Empress but also the vibrant customs and intricate politics of the royal household. As she navigated life among the elite, Carl found Cixi to be a blend of grace and intelligence, a ruler whose legacy remains complex and controversial. Initially hesitant to share her insights, Carl felt compelled to correct misrepresentations in the press, leading to the publication of her candid account in 1906. Her portrait of Cixi now resides in the Smithsonians Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, a testament to a unique cultural exchange and a moment in history.
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    10 mins
  • 033 - Chapter XXXII The Chinese New Year

    033 - Chapter XXXII The Chinese New Year
    Mar 8 2026
    Step into the world of the Chinese Imperial Court through the eyes of Katharine Carl, an American artist who, in 1903, was granted a rare invitation to paint Cixi, the Empress Dowager of China. For nine months, Carl resided in stunning palaces, capturing not only the likeness of the Empress but also the vibrant customs and intricate politics of the royal household. As she navigated life among the elite, Carl found Cixi to be a blend of grace and intelligence, a ruler whose legacy remains complex and controversial. Initially hesitant to share her insights, Carl felt compelled to correct misrepresentations in the press, leading to the publication of her candid account in 1906. Her portrait of Cixi now resides in the Smithsonians Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, a testament to a unique cultural exchange and a moment in history.
    Show More Show Less
    13 mins
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