Unveiling the Orient with Hanfugirl

EP08 Beyond Blue: The Imperial Journey of Turquoise and Lapis Lazuli

For centuries, turquoise and lapis lazuli have been symbols of power, spirituality, and artistic mastery across civilizations. From Cleopatra’s mesmerizing eyeshadow to the striking turquoise masks of the Mayans, these stones held deep cultural significance. In this episode, we explore how turquoise became a prized gem of Tibetan royalty and played a role in a legendary Tang Dynasty challenge—where an emperor tested a suitor’s skill by threading a silk cord through its hollow core. We also uncover how the deep blue of lapis lazuli influenced the famed blue-and-white porcelain bowls of China, cementing its legacy in art and design. Finally, we trace how turquoise’s radiant hue inspired Tiffany Blue, proving that the allure of these stones endures in both ancient and modern luxury. Join us as we unravel the myths, prestige, and lasting beauty of turquoise and lapis lazuli.

EP07 Glass: The Forgotten Treasure of Ancient Civilizations

Glass—ubiquitous, practical, and often overlooked—was once one of the most prized materials in the ancient world. In this episode of Unveiling the Orient, Hanfugirl and Thory explore the fascinating history of glass, from its origins in Mesopotamia and Egypt to its role in Chinese and European cultures. Discover how glass was once as valuable as gold, how the Chinese imitated jade with glass, and why ancient civilizations treasured it for its beauty and versatility. Along the way, we’ll unravel the connections between glassmaking, Buddhism, trade routes, and even colonial exploitation. Join us for a journey through time, where we rediscover glass as more than just a material—but as an art form, a status symbol, and a cultural bridge.

EP06 Pearls of the Orient

From Mikimoto pearls to Cleopatra's pearl drink, this episode will cover pearl history that spanned thousands of years across civilisations. While we casually chat over the obsession over pearls over the millenniums, we also talk about ethical and sustainability issues that have plagued mankind for as long as history itself.

EP05 Ancient Calendars: A Timeless Legacy

Timekeeping is a universal human need, but did you know that the so-called “Lunar Calendar” isn’t actually lunar? In this episode of Unveiling the Orient, Hanfugirl and co-host Eustacia Tan explore how ancient civilizations, particularly in China and Japan, developed their calendars to balance agriculture, governance, and spirituality. We break down why early societies needed calendars, the surprising accuracy of Chinese astronomical calculations, and how Japan adapted the Chinese system while introducing its own innovations. From the hidden solar roots of the 24 solar terms to the unexpected history of the seven-day week in East Asia, this episode challenges what you thought you knew about timekeeping. Join us as we decode the fascinating interplay between astronomy, culture, and politics—because calendars aren’t just about marking dates; they’re about understanding civilization itself.

EP04 Luscious Greens of Emeralds & Jades

In this episode, we journey into the fascinating world of emeralds and jades in Chinese history—exploring the rise of jadeite, a gemstone that captivated China yet was never traditionally consideredyu (玉). We’ll discuss the historical name for emeralds in China, the origins offeicui (翡翠) and its poetic ties to the kingfisher bird, and how jadeite reshaped the perception of jade in Chinese traditions. But that’s not all—we’ll also dive into some of the most ironic and legendary jadeite pieces in recent history, from the famous Barbara Hutton necklace to Mrs. Wellington Koo’s audacious jadeite chili bet, and the legendary trader Tie Bao Ting. Join us as we blend history, intrigue, and larger-than-life stories in this gem-filled episode!