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-2025

Analog Photography


This portrait, titled "囍," combines the tradition of the "ghost bride" custom in ancient Chinese culture with the theme of female oppression, conveying deep social meanings. In certain regions of ancient China, ghost marriages (冥婚) were performed for deceased relatives, often associated with the "囍" character, symbolizing happiness and marriage. This tradition is integrated with the modern-day experience of women, exploring the roles and oppression they face in society.

In this image, the girl wears an outfit adorned with the "囍" character, representing marriage and traditional female roles. However, the red veil and large peony flower she holds convey a deeper metaphor. The red veil, a symbol of traditional bridal attire, also alludes to the oppression and confinement women face in these cultural expectations. Her face is nearly obscured, emphasizing the silence and unvoiced protest of women in societal culture. The peony flower, commonly associated with beauty and fragility in traditional Chinese symbolism, also evokes a sense of brokenness, representing the silent pain and struggle beneath these societal norms.

This work juxtaposes the traditional ghost bride culture with modern female identity, reflecting how women in ancient China were often seen as symbols of "ownership," particularly within the confines of marriage and societal roles. While the "囍" symbol represents cultural celebration, the girl's restraint and concealment reveal the hidden oppression and silent resistance that persist. Through this visual language, the portrait not only reflects the historical background of the ghost bride tradition but also critiques the continued oppression of women, calling attention to the need for autonomy and agency.

The concept behind this portrait is a modern interpretation of the "囍" character within the context of the ancient Chinese ghost bride tradition, offering both a reflection on cultural history and a critique of the ongoing oppression of women.



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