In times of the West and East Zhou Dynasties, under the influence of “manandwomaninone” ethnical concept, imperial women as the female sovereigns enjoyed power and place only next to the lords in the imperial families. They shared the rank with the lords and possessed power and duty in controlling family property and commanding the vassals to administrate internal affairs of families. Moreover, they were responsible for feasting and receiving family relatives to strengthen the family unity.

the West and East Zhou Dynasties; imperial women; lord; family; “manandwomaninone”