Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms: Utensils and Equipment, Volume 6

Page 10

The Yellow Command Pennant

Original: Huánghuī (黃麾). The character hui (麾) historically refers to a signal flag or baton used by a general to direct movements on a battlefield. In the context of the Ming Dynasty imperial court, it became a stylized ceremonial object.

The Yellow Command Pennant is a primary symbol of imperial authority and military command. As seen in the illustration, the pennant is mounted on a tall pole topped with a decorative finial, often shaped like a golden phoenix or a similar auspicious bird. Below the bird, several tiers of circular yellow silk valances hang down, adorned with long, flowing streamers.

In grand processions, the "Yellow Command" signaled the presence of the Emperor or a high-ranking commander acting with the Emperor’s mandate. Unlike a standard flag that catches the wind horizontally, this pennant hangs vertically, creating a sense of stable, central dignity.

The Crimson Leading Banner

Original: Jiàngyǐnfān (絳引旛). Jiang (絳) refers to a deep, brilliant crimson or scarlet red. Yin (引) means to lead or guide, and fan (旛) is a vertical banner.

The Crimson Leading Banner serves as a visual guide for the procession. Its primary function is "leading"—marking the front of a specific contingent or guiding the path of the imperial carriage.

Similar in construction to the Yellow Command Pennant, it features a decorative bird finial at the top and multiple layers of fabric. However, its vibrant crimson color distinguishes it from the imperial yellow. These banners were typically carried in pairs or sets to frame the path, ensuring the orderly movement of the thousands of participants involved in state rituals.

Technical Terms:

• Yellow Command Pennant Huánghuī: A vertical yellow signal banner used to denote imperial command.
• Crimson Leading Banner Jiàngyǐnfān: A deep red vertical banner used at the front of a procession to guide the way.
• Ceremonial Regalia Yízhàng: The collective term for the flags, umbrellas, weapons, and banners carried in an official imperial parade.