宋真宗后坐像 宋真宗后姓劉（969年—1033年5月11日），正史無名字記載，野史稱劉娥，益州華陽
宋真宗后坐像
宋真宗后姓劉（969年—1033年5月11日），正史無名字記載，野史稱劉娥，益州華陽縣（在今四川省成都市境內）人，諡號章獻明肅皇后。她是宋朝第一位攝政的皇太后。宋仁宗登基時才13歲，由嫡母劉太后攝政十一年，她常與漢之呂太后、唐之武則天並稱，史書稱其「有呂武之才，無呂武之惡」。
劉皇后穿戴宋代后妃最高等級禮衣（褘衣），面罩絳紗，頭戴九龍花釵冠。后冠中軸線盤踞一條女仙騎乘的巨龍，巨龍下方為兩條對龍。巨龍左右兩側各有三組女仙乘龍及列隊，亦即后冠主要裝飾為「王母仙人隊」，呈現宋代后冠結合母儀天下與西王母形象的特殊意涵。
宋真宗后劉氏也是傳說故事狸貓換太子的女主角
The life of Empress Liu, also known as Liu E, is a captivating chapter in Chinese history. Born in 969 and passing away in 1033, she was not only the first regent empress but played a critical role during the early Song Dynasty. Notably, she served as the regent for her son, Emperor Renzong, when he ascended to the throne at only 13 years old, governing effectively for 11 years. Liu's reign was marked by her intelligence and capability, often compared to other powerful women in Chinese history, such as Empress Lü of Han and Wu Zetian of Tang, praised for her talent without the malevolence sometimes associated with them. Liu E is well-remembered for her distinctive royal appearance, often depicted in historical records wearing the highest-grade ceremonial attire of Song dynasty empresses, adorned with a dragon crown symbolizing her imperial status. The intricate design of her crown featured a dragon amidst celestial maidens, representing the fusion of maternal virtue and the imagery of the Queen Mother of the West, which reflects the cultural and imperial symbolism of the time. In addition to her political significance, Liu E is also featured in folklore, most notably as the heroine in the tale of the 'Raccoon Cat Switching the Crown Prince,' highlighting her cultural impact beyond the court. Empress Liu's legacy thus continues to resonate in both history and literature, making her a pivotal figure in understanding the role of women in the Song dynasty and the broader tapestry of Chinese history.