Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms: Implements, Volume 16

Page Five

The Shield is a defensive implement. The Feathered Standard also known as a screen is held by dancers to promote and illustrate civil education. According to the Rites of Zhou Original: Zhōu Lǐ (周禮); a foundational text on the ritual bureaucracy of the Zhou dynasty., the "Military Dance" specifically utilized the Vermilion Shield Original: Zhū Gān (朱干); a shield painted with red lacquer, used in ritualized combat displays..

The people of the Zhou dynasty performed dances during sacrifices to the spirits of the mountains and rivers. The Illustrations of the Three Classics of Rites Original: Sānlǐtú (三禮圖); a Tang-dynasty study of ritual objects. states that the Feathered Standard is made by splitting white feathers; its shape resembles a ceremonial fan Original: Shà (翣); a fan-shaped implement used in funerals and royal processions to screen the deceased or the ruler..

The Yak-Tail Banner resembles the Plumed Flag, but the Plumed Flag is crafted by splitting the feathers of a pheasant Original: Dí (翟); specifically the Long-tailed Pheasant, whose feathers were highly prized for ritual use. and mounting them at the top of a flagpole. The Yak-Tail Banner, conversely, is made from the tail of a yak Original: Niúwěi (牛尾); literally "ox tail," referring here to the long-haired tail of the mountain yak. and is attached to the head of the flagpole. Thus, the designs established by the ancient sages were not identical, and their practical applications were likewise distinct.