Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms: Implements and Utensils, Volume 4

Page 21

Feather Dance Staff

Feather Dance original: "羽舞" (Yuwu)
The Feather Dance is one of the "Six Small Dances" Ancient ritual dances mentioned in the Rites of Zhou performed during state ceremonies. The implement illustrated here is a staff held by the dancers, traditionally adorned with pheasant feathers. In the context of Confucian ritual, these feathers symbolize the "civil" (wen) aspect of governance and the refinement of the soul.

Imperial Dance Staff

Imperial Dance original: "皇舞" (Huangwu)
The Imperial Dance—sometimes referred to as the "Phoenix Dance"—involved the use of staves decorated with multi-colored feathers. Historically, this dance was performed during solemn sacrifices to the gods of the Earth and Grain, or as a ritual plea for rain during droughts. The "Huang" refers to the variegated plumage of the mythical phoenix, representing the harmony of the cosmos.

Ritual Context and