Settling the Emperor’s Affairs: The Qing Imperial Household Department

In the Qing dynasty, the Imperial Household Department played a vital role. It was the emperor's personal administration, serving him in every aspect of life, from his food, clothing, and lodging to his private treasury.

The department wielded such great power that only ministers trusted above all by the emperor, such as Heshen and Ronglu, could oversee it.

The Imperial Household Department was vast, encompassing institutions such as the Jiangnan Imperial Textile Bureau, the Palace Eunuch Office, the Shengjing Imperial Household Department, and the Imperial Tea and Food Service. It also acquired wealth through various channels. Its history is filled with fascinating stories.

The sources of its wealth alone touch on such intriguing subjects as Cao Xueqin's family, imperial merchants who helped the emperor turn a profit, the ginseng trade, and the salt merchants.

This book explores the historical position and function of the Qing Imperial Household Department, along with the stories that unfolded within it. Told in an accessible style, it reveals an institution familiar to everyone, yet shrouded in mystery.