Old photos of the Qing Dynasty: Close-up of the 'supercar' of rich aristocrats, a symbol of status and family at that time

Old photos are colored by modern technology to help posterity have a more realistic view of a vehicle of the Qing Dynasty aristocracy.

Old photos are colored by modern technology to help posterity have a more realistic view of a vehicle of the Qing Dynasty aristocracy.

Chariots ran fast, horses galloped. all kinds of traffic were busy on the boulevards of the Qing Dynasty in China. But there is one type of vehicle that always attracts attention every time it appears, which is the mule-drawn carriage , jokingly called the "supercar" during the Qing Dynasty. Through precious old photos with added color, we will witness more realistically about these "supercars".

Picture 1 of Old photos of the Qing Dynasty: Close-up of the 'supercar' of rich aristocrats, a symbol of status and family at that time

Picture 2 of Old photos of the Qing Dynasty: Close-up of the 'supercar' of rich aristocrats, a symbol of status and family at that time

Picture 3 of Old photos of the Qing Dynasty: Close-up of the 'supercar' of rich aristocrats, a symbol of status and family at that time

Mule-drawn vehicles were jokingly called "supercars" during the Qing Dynasty.

These "luxury cars" were mainly pulled by mules. The mule, an animal hybrid between a horse and a donkey, had enough strength and endurance, becoming the most ideal source of transportation at that time. They are strong, benign and easy to control, and can be found in cities or villages.

The rear part of the car is usually made of good wood, sturdy and durable. The wide wheels and wheel hubs are decorated with sophisticated metal inlays that look very luxurious. The interior of the car is even more luxurious with soft silk cushions, delicate tea sets and breakfast boxes, airy glass windows. Everything is designed to bring the most comfortable car sitting experience.

Picture 4 of Old photos of the Qing Dynasty: Close-up of the 'supercar' of rich aristocrats, a symbol of status and family at that time

Picture 5 of Old photos of the Qing Dynasty: Close-up of the 'supercar' of rich aristocrats, a symbol of status and family at that time

Picture 6 of Old photos of the Qing Dynasty: Close-up of the 'supercar' of rich aristocrats, a symbol of status and family at that time

The rear part of the car is usually made of good wood, sturdy and durable.

Not only that, the "luxury cars" of the Qing Dynasty were also unique in appearance design. The carriage is made of silk and satin, combining bright colors and sophisticated patterns. The chassis is made of good wood, carefully carved and painted, showing an elegant and noble temperament. The spokes on the wheels are also meticulously designed, like works of art.

In those days, traveling on a mule-drawn cart was a symbol of status. Whether they are royal nobles or wealthy merchants, they are all proud to own this "luxury car". For ordinary people, renting such a mule-drawn cart to move around is something to brag about and be proud of.

If you have a car, you must have a driver, who will be hired and paid a monthly salary like a servant in the house. They also take care of the mules and maintain the trailer behind them.

Picture 7 of Old photos of the Qing Dynasty: Close-up of the 'supercar' of rich aristocrats, a symbol of status and family at that time

Picture 8 of Old photos of the Qing Dynasty: Close-up of the 'supercar' of rich aristocrats, a symbol of status and family at that time

Traveling on a mule-drawn cart was a symbol of status.

Of course, these "luxury cars" are quite expensive. The price of a mule-drawn cart is usually enough to cover the living expenses of an average family for several years. Therefore, whoever owns this car must definitely be rich or come from an ordinary background.

Mule-drawn carts are not only a means of transportation but also works of art and status symbols. They are witnesses to the prosperity and glory of the Qing Dynasty, and reflect the lifestyle and values ​​of the people of that era.

Picture 9 of Old photos of the Qing Dynasty: Close-up of the 'supercar' of rich aristocrats, a symbol of status and family at that time

Picture 10 of Old photos of the Qing Dynasty: Close-up of the 'supercar' of rich aristocrats, a symbol of status and family at that time

These cars are quite expensive.

In addition, many people can do business by using mule-drawn carts to transport passengers. The first condition is that they must spend money to buy a vehicle with a complete mule, then run around the streets to see who wants to ride, or can use it for short or long-term rental.

In general, mule-drawn carriages during the Qing Dynasty were a means of transportation that combined luxury, practicality and art, not only an important tool for people to travel but also a witness of history and culture. Stories about these mule-drawn carts are also passed down to posterity. Although they are in the past, they still possess an undeniable traditional beauty.

Update 27 March 2024
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