What is the Name of Cixi's Mobile Toilet?
Cixi's mobile toilet was called 'guanfang'.
The guanfang was a term used to refer to the mobile commode exclusively used by the Qing Dynasty royal family, holding a unique position and role in court life. As an extremely powerful figure in the late Qing Dynasty, Cixi led an extremely luxurious and particular life, and the guanfang she used was naturally no ordinary one.
The guanfang used by Cixi came in a variety of materials, with porcelain basins being relatively common. Porcelain basins had a fine texture, smooth surface, and were easy to clean, which to a certain extent ensured hygiene during use. However, the one she often used was a guanfang carved from sandalwood, and the choice of this material fully reflected her luxurious taste. Sandalwood itself had a unique fragrance, capable of emitting a pleasant smell and helping to mask odors.
In terms of design, a large gecko was carved on the outside of Cixi's sandalwood guanfang, and the craftsmanship was exquisite. The gecko was vividly depicted, serving not only as a decoration but also carrying special symbolic meanings. In ancient Chinese culture, geckos were sometimes regarded as auspicious creatures, and carving them on the guanfang might have embodied certain good wishes.
Moreover, this guanfang was also designed with functions such as odor removal. Considering Cixi's high demands on the quality of life, odor removal was essential. It was likely that special structures were adopted inside the guanfang or items with odor-removing effects were placed, enabling it to minimize the generation and emission of odors during use and maintain a relatively fresh surrounding environment.
As an important item in Cixi's daily life, the guanfang reflected the luxury and particularity of court life at that time. It was not just a simple mobile commode but also a manifestation of court culture and the hierarchical system, showcasing the nobility and majesty of the royal family from the choice of materials to the exquisite design.
