The tradition of foot binding in Chinese culture started during the period of the Song Dynasty, which lasted from the years 960-1279. It became a symbol of aesthetic appeal and status among wealthy families. Females with bound feet were considered as more desirable because small feet were seen as a reflection of elegance. https://scienceofthefoot.com/bound-feet-unbound-lives-the-cultural-significance-and-historical-journey-of-chinese-foot-binding/