In this episode of Dressed for the Grave, we unravel the long history of footbinding, from its rumored origins in the imperial courts of the Song Dynasty to its deep ties to beauty, marriage, honor, status, and survival. We also explore the roles of Empress Dowager Cixi and reformer Kang Youwei, alongside the cultural and economic forces that allowed the practice to persist for nearly a thousand years.

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In this Tangisode, we dive into the dark legend of Giulia Tofana and the infamous poison known as Aqua Tofana, a deadly mixture rumored to have helped hundreds of women escape abusive marriages in 17th-century Italy. Disguised among cosmetics and vanity bottles, the poison became one of history's most chilling symbols of desperation, survival, and quiet rebellion.

Resource: For those in any of the 50 States in the US, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico, needing assistance with domestic abuse situations, mental health, food, housing and more, you can DIAL 2-1-1, text your zip code to 898-211 or visit 211.org and you will be connected to assistance in your local area.

In this episode of Dressed for the Grave, we trace the history of lead-based cosmetics, from ancient Egypt to Elizabethan courts and the powdered excess of the 18th century. We explore how a material once used for protection became a symbol of perfection, and how that pursuit slowly poisoned the people who wore it.

Correction: In a very on-brand moment, during our corrections, we mention Prince Andrew. The prince we really meant to refer to was Prince Philip, husband to Queen Elizabeth II.

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