Thomas Child took a series of three photographs relating to late Qing dynasty marriage customs. This one depicts the granddaughter of General Zeng Guofan; a high-ranking Qing official; seated next to her groom.

Child describes this photograph: 'Weddings are one of the stock ceremonies of the world; and every country has its own customs. In China the bridal colour is scarlet. This bride wore a scarlet satin coat embroidered with gold thread; with a skirt to match; her head dress was a mass of scarlet; gold and pearls.'. Pictures From History Pictures From History