Imperial Commissioner (China)


Imperial Commissioner was a high-ranking government official or military general commissioned by the emperor of China during the late Ming and Qing dynasties. His power was just below that of the emperor, such that he could command viceroys and provincial governors by imperial edict.

Functions

Main responsibilities

Negotiations with foreign powers, for example Lin Zexu, Qishan and Shen Baozhen) as well as treaty ratification as exemplified by Qiying, Yixin, Prince Gong and Li Hongzhang.
Manage aid and unite local government in response to large-scale natural disasters.

Subsidiary responsibilities

Military recruitment and transport. Examples include Tan Lun, Hong Chengchou, Xiang Rong, Zuo Zongtang and Yuan Shikai

List of Imperial Commissioners (middle and late Ming dynasty)

Imperial Commissioners received a sword of office from the emperor.