Jade Pendant Sets

Ritual Jade Pendants

original: "玉珮" (Yùpèi). These are decorative sets of carved jade worn in pairs, hanging from the left and right sides of the leather belt.

Jade Pendant Sets (玉珮, Yùpèi): An elaborate arrangement of several carved jade pieces—including a top bar, side pieces, and a central striking piece—connected by strings of colorful silk and pearls.

In the ritual tradition, these pendants served a dual purpose. Beyond their beauty, the various jade pieces were designed to chime against one another as the wearer moved. This "tinkling of jade" (jinpai) acted as a metronome for the wearer’s movements; the Crown Prince was expected to walk with such grace and rhythm that the pendants produced a harmonious sound, reflecting his inner moral cultivation and self-discipline.

As shown in the illustration, the set concludes with several long silk tassels at the bottom, which would sway elegantly during the performance of court rituals.

Ritual Sashes

The Ceremonial Ribbon-Sash

original: "綬" (Shòu). This is a broad, decorative silk sash or "plaque-ribbon" that hangs from the back of the belt.

Ceremonial Sash (綬, Shòu): A long, woven panel of multi-colored silk. By the Ming and Qing dynasties, these were highly standardized indicators of rank, featuring specific colors and complex weaving patterns that distinguished the Imperial family from the bureaucracy.

The illustration displays the "Great Sash" style used for formal sacrifices. For a Crown Prince, the sash was often woven with patterns of clouds or small floral motifs in four colors—red, yellow, green, and white. It is attached to the waist belt via a set of rings and hangs down the back of the ceremonial skirt, ending in a heavy fringe or tassel.

The woven patterns on the sash must align with the regulations of the "Code of the Great Ming," ensuring the Prince's status is visible even from behind during the ritual processions.