During the Spring and Autumn Period in the state of Yue there lived two large families. Hsi-chih, from one family was enchantingly lovely, while Tung-shih, from the other was quite the opposite.
One day Hsi-shih was feeling uncomfortable and as she walked along the village street, Tung-shih noticed how charming she looked with a frown. Hoping for a similar effect, she feigned discomfort and a frowning brow. But Tung-shih's unhappy appearance was in contrast quite frightening. Tung-shih didn't realize that Hsi-shih's frown was lovely because Hsi-shih herself was attractive.
Later, the saying "Tung-shih Imitates a Frown", came to describe those who are unaware of their own nature and limitations, but try to imitate others hoping for the same effect.
(Jill Ardourel)