In the flow of Chinese imperial history, there have been figures that briefly appeared in the records but left a lasting impression on the passage of time. One such figure is the legendary beauty of the concubine, Ham Huong, who captivated Emperor Qianlong to the point of breaking many palace rules of the Qing dynasty.
Although often regarded as a mythical character, Ham Huong was based on a real person: Dunghu (born in 1734 – died in 1738), who hailed from the Hoa Trac family in Tân Cương. Her beauty was not only remarkable but also enhanced by an elegant demeanor and a captivating charm. Initially, she was appointed as a low-ranking concubine, but eventually rose to become a favored concubine. According to legend, the beauty of Dunghu was so striking and naturally alluring that she was referred to as “Ham Huong.”
Most historical texts provide little detail about the beauty of Dunghu, but some resources describe her with profound depth, conveying an enchanting aura that bridged the East and the West. Even so, her true beauty has remained an enigma for centuries. However, with the help of modern AI technology, we have finally begun to unravel the mystery of Ham Huong’s beauty as depicted in folklore.
According to the AI-generated images, Dunghu retains an ethereal beauty with fair skin, a high round face, long and deep-set eyes, exuding intelligence and charm. Although she may not represent the typical beauty standards of her time, the “Ham Huong” aesthetic still conveys an unmistakable elegance.
In reality, her character has not only appeared in literature but has also inspired many adaptations depicting Ham Huong in various forms. Notably, one can refer to Ham Huong (Lu Dan) in Hoàn Châu Cách Cách, Han Huong Kien (Ly Tham) in Như Ý Truyện, or Thuan Tan (Trương Gia Nghệ) in Diên Hi Công Lược. However, considering the lasting impressions and the legacy she created in the hearts of audiences, the portrayal of Ham Huong by Lu Dan in Hoàn Châu Cách Cách remains a timeless legend.
Although she has not appeared frequently, Ham Huong is a character that deeply resonates with the audience of Hoàn Châu Cách Cách. The enchanting image of the beautiful princess, combined with her captivating fragrance, has not only mesmerized Emperor Qianlong but also overshadowed other prominent characters such as Tiểu Yến Tử and Hạ Tử Vy.
Compared to the AI-generated representations, Lu Dan’s portrayal of Ham Huong in Hoàn Châu Cách Cách still retains many unique attributes regarding allure and temperament. Lu Dan not only embodies traditional beauty but also presents a charming elegance that reflects the enigmatic personality of a noble princess.
