The ranking system for an emperor’s wives and consorts was detailed and varied across different Chinese dynasties. Here’s a more comprehensive breakdown, including variations from different dynasties like the Tang (618–907), Song (960–1279), Ming (1368–1644), and Qing (1644–1912) Dynasties.
Factors influencing rank:
- Family background: Women from prominent families often received higher ranks.
- Emperor’s favor: A concubine who gained the emperor’s favor could be elevated in rank.
- Ability to bear children: Concubines who gave birth to the emperor’s heirs often received higher status.
1. Empress (皇后, Huánghòu) – First Rank
- The highest-ranking wife of the emperor, his main consort.
- She had authority over all the emperor’s consorts and the harem.
- Wore the Phoenix Crown (凤冠, Fèngguān) as a symbol of power.
- The Empress gave birth to the heir (Crown Prince) whenever possible.
2. Imperial Noble Consort (皇贵妃, Huáng Guìfēi) – Second Rank
- Just below the empress but still held significant influence.
- This rank was not always present in earlier dynasties but became common in the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
3. Noble Consort (贵妃, Guìfēi) – Third Rank
- Higher than most other consorts but below the Imperial Noble Consort.
- Usually, one or two women held this title.
4. Consort (妃, Fēi) – Fourth Rank
- A mid-tier consort with noble status.
- In the Qing Dynasty, there were typically four Consorts at a time.
5. Imperial Concubine (嫔, Pín) – Fifth Rank
- A recognized consort but of lower status.
- Had limited influence in court matters.
6. Noble Lady (贵人, Guìrén) – Sixth Rank
- The lowest official rank in the imperial harem.
- Some noble ladies could rise in rank if favored by the emperor.
7. First Attendant (常在, Chángzài) – Seventh Rank
- Lower than a Noble Lady but still part of the emperor’s harem.
- Had minimal influence but could be promoted.
8. Second Attendant (答应, Dāyìng) – Eighth Rank
- The lowest recognized rank.
- Mostly served the emperor without real power.
9. Palace Maids (宫女, Gōngnǚ) – Unranked
- Not official consorts but worked in the inner palace.
- Could sometimes be promoted if favored by the emperor.
Other Titles (Special Cases & Retired Consorts)
- Empress Dowager (皇太后, Huáng Tàihòu) – The widow of a deceased emperor, often the mother of the new emperor.
- Grand Empress Dowager (太皇太后, Tài Huáng Tàihòu) – The grandmother of the reigning emperor.
- Virtuous Consorts (昭仪, Zhāoyí; 修仪, Xiūyí, etc.) – Titles used in some dynasties like the Tang, referring to special-ranked concubines with unique responsibilities.
Each dynasty had slight variations, but this structure provides a detailed view of the emperor’s wives’ ranks throughout Chinese history. Would you like information on a specific dynasty or any famous empresses? 😊