The Grand Constant Banner (Tai Chang)

The Grand Constant Original: Tàicháng (太常). The name signifies "Great Constancy," representing the eternal and unchanging nature of the Heavens and the Sovereign's rule. is described in the section on the Superintendent of Royal Chariots Original: Jīnchē (巾車), the official responsible for the King’s carriages and their ceremonial trappings.. It states that when the King rides in the Jade Carriage, he displays the Grand Constant banner with twelve streamers for the purpose of offering sacrifices.

Furthermore, the Commentary on the Observance of Rites Likely referring to the Guānlǐ (觀禮) or similar ritual commentaries. states:
When the King sets up the Grand Constant, the header is made of crimson silk painted with the sun, moon, and clouds. Below these, reaching down to the streamers, are interlaced paintings of ascending and descending dragons. The crimson sections are made from full widths of deep red silk. A yak-tail ornament is attached to it.

Additionally, a bow-shaped frame is used to stretch the crimson fabric. A "Crooked Arrow" Original: Wǎngshǐ (枉矢). This refers to a celestial symbol, often interpreted as a shooting star or comet, believed to have the power to ward off evil influences. is also painted upon the crimson portion of the banner. This is why the Assistant to the People Original: Fǔrén (輔人), a title of a ritual official. says: "The bow-flag and the crooked arrow."

Generally, at the top of all ceremonial banners, yak-tails and feathers are fixed to form the pole-head. Therefore, the commentary for the Summer Collector Original: Xiàcǎi (夏采), an official in the Rites of Zhou who handled royal funeral and ritual matters. notes that the tassel is made of yak-tail hair and is attached to the top of the banner; its pole is nine ren high, and its pendants are long enough to trail upon the ground. One rèn (仞) is an ancient measure of approximately seven to eight feet. A nine-ren pole would be exceptionally tall (over 60 feet), emphasizing the King's supreme status.