Secret Communication and Safe Retirement
Unlike other powerful eunuchs, Li knew not to overreach. He kept a humble appearance while collecting massive bribes and gifts. He developed hand signals to talk secretly with Cixi during public meetings. When photographers first entered the Forbidden City, Li appears in many pictures standing near Cixi. He retired peacefully after her death in 1908 and died naturally in 1911 as the dynasty collapsed. His former Beijing home still stands as a museum.
