Chinese ancestor portrait

[EmmaW]

I have a beautiful old Chinese ancestor portrait that I'd love some help with. It features a civil official of the 8th rank (signified by the quail emblem) and his wife, both dressed in ornate robes featuring dragons chasing the flaming pearl. She has four Chinese characters on her headdress that I'd be very interested to know the meaning of...

Thank you everyone

[Kenny同志]

It says 奉天誥命, an honour conferred upon the lady by the emperor. Something like knighthood (but for women of course) I guess?

[EmmaW]

Thanks Kenny

The internet has translated what you've given me as 'Fengtian 誥 life'. Does that make sense? Is there anything in the third character that could help identify her?

[Kenny同志]

No, it makes no sense. All I know from the four characters is that the lady had been given an honour by the emperor.

[xiaocai]

I think it may have something to do with 诰命夫人.

[EmmaW]

Thanks for your help. As a non Chinese speaker I am a little confused though.

I've included a clearer image in the hope that it may help...

Thank you so much

[skylee]

Kenny has already answered the question about the meaning of the four characters. Using common sense I think the woman is the man's number one wife. What else do you want to know?