With the Empress Dowager of China

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.