The following photos are selected from the Library of the University of Bristol in the UK. They record the images of different classes of people in Guangdong, China from 1860 to 1900. From them, we can have a certain understanding of people's lives and mental states at that time.
A man smoking a cigarette. 1880-1890.
In the late Qing Dynasty, long nails were not exclusive to aristocratic women, and it was not uncommon for men to have long nails. The photo caption says the man is a doctor, but I doubt it. His long nails and neat appearance give people the impression that he is not engaged in productive labor. Obviously, his family was well off and either rich or noble.
Four girls. Taken around 1880-1890.
The typical southern women's clothing and headwear of that era, and their expressions were slightly dull. This is a posed photo taken in a photo studio. At that time, those who could take photos in the photo studio were not ordinary people. Combined with their neat and beautiful clothes, it was obvious that they were women from wealthy families.
Two officials from the Guangdong region. Taken around 1890-1900.
The two of them were sitting upright. Obviously in order to comply with the photographer's request, both of them wore neat and clean official uniforms, official hats and official boots.
Guangzhou, a family of Chinese businessmen. Taken around 1860-1864.
Judging from the furnishings in the home, the owner's clothing and the character's mental outlook, this is not an ordinary businessman's family.
The fat woman and her children. Taken around 1880-1890.
The fat woman seemed too reserved, and it was obvious that she was not used to facing the camera.
Seven beautiful pictures. Taken around 1880-1890.
The seven beauties each hold a folding fan. Generally speaking, women in ancient times used round fans to show their femininity, while men using folding fans showed their scholarly style. However, in the middle and late Ming Dynasty, folding fans became more popular because they were easier to carry. Coupled with changes in concepts, more and more women are using folding fans.
Hong Kong, roadside food stalls and hawkers buying fruits and vegetables. Taken around 1880-1890.
Mobile food stalls and small vendors like this have always been one of the ways of making a living for middle- and lower-class working people, and their shadows can still be seen today. Although it is a small business, it is still crucial to supporting the family.
Addict. Taken around 1880-1890.
Opium was banned repeatedly in the late Qing Dynasty. There were various reasons for this, but the most important one was the gradual weakening of the Qing Dynasty's ruling power.
Mr. Accountant, Guangdong. Taken around 1890-1900.
Six men dining, Guangdong. Taken around 1890-1900.