Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms

original: "三才圖會" (Sancai Tuhui). In traditional Chinese thought, the "Three Realms" (Heaven, Earth, and Humanity) encompass the totality of the universe.

Compiled by Wang Siyi, courtesy name Yunmingfu, of Yunjian

Wang Siyi was the son of the project's primary editor, Wang Qi. Yunjian is a literary name for the region of Songjiang, near modern-day Shanghai.

Implements and Utensils, Volume 4 Dance Implements, Archery Targets, Boat Categories


Whisk Dance	Ox-tail Dance	Battle-axe	Great Standard Feathered Streamer	Command Flag	Wooden Clapper
Feather Dance	Shield Dance	Ritual Flute	Feathered Banner	Box Clapper	Ritual Drum
Imperial Feather Dance	Gestural Dance	Pheasant-Feather Wand	Tally of Authority	Small Response-Drum	Bronze Gong

The items listed in this table are the essential components of "Yue" (ritual music and dance), which was a vital part of Confucian state ceremonies. These dances were divided into "civil" (using feathers and flutes) and "martial" (using shields and axes).

Whisk Dance (帗舞) A ritual dance where performers held bundles of multicolored silk.
Box Clapper (相) A percussion instrument shaped like a small hollow box, used to mark the rhythm of the music.
Tally of Authority (節) A staff topped with animal hair or feathers, historically held by imperial envoys to signify their power to act on the Emperor's behalf.