Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms

original: 三才圖會 (Sancai Tuhui)

Ceremonial Systems, Volume Two

original: 儀制 (Yizhi). This section deals with the highly structured rituals, protocols, and dress codes that governed Ming Dynasty life.

Illustration of Foreign Kings Presenting Tribute
Illustration of Foreign Kings Meeting the Grand Councilors The "Zaifu" were the most senior administrative officials in the central government, often acting as advisors to the Emperor.
Illustration of Dispatching Envoys for the Investiture Known as "cebai," this is the formal ritual of conferring a title, accompanied by a physical document or scroll (a "patent"). of the Empress
Illustration of the Investiture of the Crown Prince
Illustration of the Princess Receiving her Investiture
Illustration of the Imperial Consort Receiving her Investiture

Illustration of Foreign Kings Presenting Tribute to the Eastern Palace The "Donggong," or Eastern Palace, is a metonym for the Crown Prince and his administrative household.
Illustration of Foreign Envoys Meeting Secretariat Officials Referring to "Shengguan," the high-ranking officials within the central government ministries.
Illustration of the Central Palace The "Zhonggong," or Central Palace, is a standard title for the Empress, referring to her residence in the heart of the Forbidden City. Receiving her Investiture
Illustration of the Investiture of the Princess
Illustration of Dispatching Envoys for the Investiture of the Imperial Consort

Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms: Ceremonial Systems, Volume Two