The Tang Dynasty saw a unified China. The era was a peaceful one, which allowed for the inclusion of new customs and travellers from outside of the country. Women’s roles within the empire were completely free and it was thought that they were liberated. The Tang Dynasty saw one of the most female influenced political periods within Chinese history, which is why women had such freedom. The aspect of new culture and ideas influenced art and fashions. Fat Lady Figures represent the tang beauty standards, the fashion of court robes changed to extenuate the fuller figure rather than the previous standard of slimmer body types. These figures are thought to be decorative and funerary items. These statues have been interpreted as a celebration of female beauty.
For more information on Tang Dynasty Fat Women, please see our blog post: The Importance of the Fat Lady in Chinese Tang Art
