Sancai Tuhui: Implements, Volume 6

Page 6

The Tasseled Standard

Jing (旌): A staff-based standard traditionally decorated with pheasant feathers or yak tails.

The Tasseled Standard Original: Jīng (旌) represents a critical development in ancient Chinese vexillology the study of flags and standards. As depicted in the illustration, the Jing consists of a tall vertical pole topped with a sharp spearhead, signifying its dual role in military and ritual settings.

What distinguishes the Jing from a simple spear is the secondary arm extending from the top of the shaft. From this arm, four large, ornate tassels hang vertically. According to the Rites of Zhou, these standards were given to officials as a symbol of the Emperor's trust. When a messenger or commander traveled with a Jing, it commanded the same respect as the ruler himself. The number of tassels and the specific colors of the feathers used would vary based on the bearer's rank, ensuring that the hierarchy of the camp was visible even from a distance.

The Flowing Standard

Huo Jing (濩旌): A specialized, bird-topped ritual standard, characterized by its "flowing" or "shielding" design.

The Flowing Standard Original: Huòjīng (濩旌) is a more decorative and symbolic variation of the standard. The term Huo 濩 refers to the grand, flowing appearance of the tassels as they catch the wind, or perhaps to a sense of "shielding" or "protecting" the dignity of the procession.

This standard is easily identified by its unique silhouette. The top of the staff curves gracefully forward, ending in a finial carved in the shape of a bird—likely a phoenix or a "Vermilion Bird." Hanging from the bird's beak is a single, long cord decorated with four distinct tiers of tassels, which finally split into two decorative ribbons at the bottom. While the Jing was a tool of command, the Huo Jing was more common in solemn ritual processions, such as those for sacrifices or royal funerals, where it acted as an auspicious guide for the spirits.