In the late Qing Dynasty, Chinese society was in a period of turmoil, and various social phenomena emerged one after another. And in that period of turbulent history, there is a group of old colored photographs, which are eye-catching and record some interesting pictures.
One of the rare photographs in this group stands out: a female nun and a monk standing together, smiling, as if they were posing for a photograph together. Such a group photo was really uncommon in the late Qing Dynasty. Female nuns are often seen as devout followers of Buddhism, while monks are the main religious figures in Buddhist monasteries, and the two are often kept at arm's length. However, the appearance of this photograph presents an unusual picture, and one can't help but wonder about the story behind it.
It is understood that the female nun's name is Hui Zhen. Born into a poor family, she lost her father at a young age and was forced to join a monastery. In the monastery, Huizhen studied Buddhism, practiced asceticism, and was full of faith in Buddhism. And this monk is her senior brother, named Hui Jue, who has always cared for and taken care of Hui Zhen. The two are like brother and sister, practice together, discuss Buddhism together, and form a deep friendship between master and apprentice.
Behind this photograph is an even more striking image: a man flying a kite while surrounded by a crowd of foreigners. The man's name was Li Zhi, and he was a local kite maker with great skills. In the late Qing Dynasty, kites, as a traditional cultural art, were loved by people. And Li Zhi's kites are famous for their exquisite craftsmanship and unique shapes. In this photo, Li Zhi is flying a kite, which attracts many foreigners to watch, who are amazed by Li Zhi's skills and the beauty of the kite.
This group of colored old photographs, although they are only simple pictures, shows the diversity and vitality of society in the late Qing Dynasty. The group photo of the female nun and the monk shows the warmth and tolerance of Buddhist culture, while the scene of Li Zhi flying a kite shows the charm and attraction of traditional culture.
However, there is also more story and meaning hidden behind these photos. In a turbulent time when people sought comfort and freedom in various ways, Buddhist culture and traditional arts became a spiritual sustenance and emotional expression for them. This group of photographs not only records some aspects of society in the late Qing Dynasty, but also reflects people's innermost beliefs and pursuits.
Savor this set of colored old photos, as if you can feel the pulse of the society of the late Qing Dynasty and appreciate the customs of that era. May we be able to draw wisdom from it, cherish history, inherit the essence of traditional culture, and contribute to the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.