The Dark Crown and Robes of the Ministers and Grandees

The attire of the Ministers and Grandees Qing Dafu (卿大夫): High-ranking officials within the imperial court hierarchy. "Qing" usually refers to the highest ministerial level, while "Dafu" refers to senior administrative grandees. begins with the Dark Crown and Robes Xuan Mian (玄冕): The fifth of the six ritual costumes defined in ancient Chinese rites. "Xuan" refers to a deep, dark reddish-black color symbolizing the sky or the heavens. This ensemble was typically plainer than those of higher ranks, often featuring fewer decorative motifs. and extends to the ranks below.

The Ministers and Grandees of the Feudal Lords Zhu Hou zhi Qing Dafu (諸侯之卿大夫): These are officials who served the regional rulers (dukes or princes) rather than the central King or Emperor. also wear this specific ritual ensemble.

original: "卿大夫自玄冕而下諸侯之卿大夫亦服之"

The illustration displays an official in the "Dark Crown" ensemble. Note the "hu" or ritual tablet held in both hands, which was essential for court etiquette, used to record the Emperor's instructions or to provide notes for the official's own report. The "Xuan Mian" is characterized by its dark color and usually featured a simpler arrangement of "tassels" (strings of beads) on the crown compared to the Emperor's twelve or the Dukes' nine.