The General’s Path-Clearing Banners

This diagram illustrates the ceremonial and tactical arrangement for the "Path-Clearing Banners" (清道旗) used by a High General (大將). It details the precise spatial positions of musket-bearing soldiers, musicians, signal-bearing cannons, and the various authoritative standards that precede the commander.

original: 鳥銃 (niǎo chòng). Literally "bird-guns," these were matchlock muskets. They were so named because their accuracy was said to be sufficient to strike a bird in flight. In this formation, they provide a protective screen of firepower for the musicians and signalers.

original: 哮喇 (xiàolǎ). A type of loud, reed-based trumpet or shawm used for military signaling. Its piercing tone was essential for communicating commands through the noise of movement or combat.

Great Banneroriginal: 大纛 (dà dào). This is the supreme standard of the army, representing the General’s presence and authority. It was often massive and required several men or a specialized harness to support.

Summons Banneroriginal: 招 (zhāo). A flag used specifically to "summon" or call subordinate officers to the General’s position for orders.

Gate Flagsoriginal: 門旗 (mén qí). These banners acted as a mobile "gate" or entrance to the commander's immediate presence, marking the perimeter of the headquarters in the field.

The label "Weapons" (器) refers to the specialized attendants guarding the banners, equipped with a variety of arms to protect the standards at all costs.