Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms: Military Equipment

The Rank-Signifying Pennant

Wu (物): A standard made of mixed silks, used to identify the presence of mid-level officials and officers.

The System of Nine Flags in the Rites of Zhou Original: Zhōulǐ (周禮), a ritual text dating back to the mid-2nd century BCE states that Senior Officials and Officers Original: Dàfū (大夫) and Shì (士) display the Wu standard. It is constructed from blended silks of various colors. The central field of the flag is red, while the edges are decorated with white silk trimming.

The Bear-and-Tiger Flag

Qi (旗): A military banner featuring animal imagery and streamers, used by regional administrative districts.

The System of Nine Flags in the Rites of Zhou notes that the military districts Original: Shīdū (師都) display the Qi flag. This flag is characterized by six streamers Original: liú (旒), the narrow strips of fabric hanging from the edge. Both the main body of the flag and the streamers themselves are painted with images of bears and tigers, symbolizing a fierce and protective guard.

The Feathered Pennant

Sui (旞): A standard distinguished by the use of whole bird feathers and a crimson silk body.

The Rites of Zhou explains that using whole feathers in the construction makes a standard a Sui. It is made of crimson silk and features streamers. The Sui incorporates five colors, and whole feathers are tied specifically to the top of the standard's pole.

The Signaling Standard

Huo (穫): A guiding standard used to coordinate the movements of subordinates and the common people.

The Rites of Zhou states that the "Signaler" Original: Huòzhě (穫者), literally 'the one who gathers or leads' holds the tasseled standard (Jing). When this standard is raised, the common people and subordinates follow it, chanting or singing in response to the signalman’s lead.