Foot-binding is believed to have begun during, or just before, the Song Dynasty in China around the 10th Century. Bound feet were seen as a status symbol for wealthy women who did not need to work, although eventually the practice became widespread.
Farrell writes: "Although considered fairly barbaric, it was a tradition that enabled women to find a suitable partner. Matchmakers or mothers-in-law required their son's betrothed to have bound feet as a sign that she would be a good wife (she would be subservient and without complaint)."