A few months ago I wrote about bound feet and the amazing women that are becoming a vanishing breed. Recently, a friend emailed me some pictures to ask about the process, and sent me these photos. Most of the women with bound feet are now in their 80's. Once they are gone, living history will move to history books. Here's to keeping their stories alive:
The process started around age 6, but many times earlier. Small feet were seen as attractive, and so, the smaller the better. A good footbinder could reach the goal of 4-6 inches in length. The process involved breaking the bones in the feet so that the feet could be folded as pictured below. (in half, with the toes folded under)
(Excuse the blurred face, but I thought it appropriate.)
Photos by Michael Yamoshita
