The Chinese tradition of footbinding originated at the beginning of the Song dynasty (960-1279). It was reserved for women of the upper classes. The resulting deformity prevented these women from walking long distances. However, thier strange gait was considered extremely provocative. The bound foot was viewed as sexually attractive and the tiny embroidered shoes and silk stockings that covered these small feet were also considered alluring. Modesty called for the covering of bound feet at all times, therefore the depiction of the naked female foot is not to be found in Chinese art. Similarly, the loosening of the bandages was a sure indication of an erotic or passionate situation.

According to the writings of the era, the ultimate fantasy was to hold the bound foot of a courtesan while drinking spirits from a cup of similar shape. If the slightly intoxicated literati chanted the verse that was inscribed in the interior of his cup, his ecstasy would be even further heightened. This particular inscription reads: "The lovely little 'Golden Lotus' spring cup," a reference to the famous erotic novel of the same name.

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