Chinese Court Use of Sunglasses Evolves
What happened
By 1400, the use of smoky quartz lenses evolved among Chinese elites, who utilized sunglasses for both protection against sunlight and as a status symbol. This innovation reflected the intersection of technology and culture, as eyewear became associated with social signaling and sophistication. The continued use of sunglasses in Chinese courts illustrates the enduring influence of fashion and utility in historical contexts.
Literary impact
The evolution of sunglasses in the Chinese court around 1400 found its way into classical poetry, where they served as metaphors for veiled emotions and imperial authority. Poets used this imagery to explore themes of perception and the hidden depths of human experience.
Source: Wikipedia