Ceremonial Regalia: Banners and Canopies

The Embroidered Banner (Xiuchang)

Original: Xiùchǎng (繡氅). The term chang historically refers to a cloak or overcoat often made of feathers, but in the context of historical Chinese ritual equipment, it designates a tall pole from which a vertical, richly embroidered cloth is suspended.

This ceremonial implement consists of a long pole topped with a decorative trident spear-tip. Attached to the upper arm of the pole is a vertical hanging of embroidered fabric. In military and state processions, such banners were used to denote the rank of an officer or the specific division of an escort. The embroidery often featured auspicious animals or floral patterns that reflected the status of the bearer.

The Multi-Tiered Canopy (Chuang)

Original: Chuáng (幢). Derived from ancient Buddhist ritual banners, the Chuang became a staple of Chinese state and religious processions. It is distinct from a standard flag as it is a three-dimensional, cylindrical structure rather than a flat piece of fabric.

The Multi-Tiered Canopy is a tall, vertical insignia featuring several layers of umbrella-like silk coverings. Each tier is typically adorned with long, flowing silk tassels and ribbons. Because of its height and complex construction, it served as a prominent visual marker within a crowd or a grand formation, signifying the presence of a high-ranking dignitary or a sacred object.

Technical Terms:

• Embroidered Banner Xiùchǎng: A vertical ritual hanging, often featuring high-quality needlework, used to display rank.
• Multi-Tiered Canopy Chuáng: A cylindrical ritual banner with multiple layers of silk and tassels, used in state and religious ceremonies.
• Ceremonial Insignia Yízhàng (儀仗): The collective term for the banners, weapons, and umbrellas carried in a formal procession to show authority.