Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms: Clothing, Volume 2

Stockings

original: "襪" (Wà). In the context of the Ming Dynasty imperial ritual dress (Mianfu), these were not simple socks but formal stockings made of crimson silk. They were designed to be worn under the ceremonial shoes, often tied at the calf with silk ribbons to ensure a smooth, dignified appearance during long processions.

Ceremonial Shoes

original: "舄" (Xì). These represent the highest tier of formal footwear in ancient China. Unlike ordinary shoes (lǚ), the xì featured a distinctive double-layered sole, often made of wood or thick felt, to protect the wearer's feet from the damp or cold ground during outdoor sacrifices at altars. For the Emperor, these were traditionally red to match the rest of his lower ritual garments.

Stockings original: "襪" (Wà). Protective and decorative silk leg coverings worn as part of the formal court uniform.
Ceremonial Shoes original: "舄" (Xì). Heavy-soled ritual footwear designed for stability and protection during state sacrifices.
Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms original: "三才圖會" (Sāncái Túhuì). An influential Ming Dynasty encyclopedia compiled around 1609, documenting everything from astronomy to clothing.
Clothing original: "衣服" (Yīfú). The general category for garments and personal adornment within the encyclopedia.