Illustration of the Imperial Prince Presenting Tribute, Part Two

Positions at the Vermilion Steps

original: 丹墀版位 (Danchi banwei). The Vermilion Steps refer to the open courtyard area located in front of the main imperial audience hall. The "positions" refer to the assigned standing spots for participants during the ritual.

A spatial diagram represents the ceremonial arrangement for a Prince's tribute procession or audience at the Vermilion Steps. The text labels indicate the specific positions of five ritual chariots, rows of ceremonial horses, and various diplomatic and court officials.

Leather Chariot original: 革輅 (Gelu). One of the five ritual chariots of the Ming dynasty, traditionally associated with military affairs or specific seasonal rites.
Gold Chariot original: 金輅 (Jinlu). A chariot decorated with gold used for high-ranking state ceremonies.
Jade Chariot original: 玉輅 (Yulu). The most prestigious of the imperial chariots, usually reserved for the Emperor's most sacred duties.
Ivory Chariot original: 象輅 (Xianglu). A chariot adorned with ivory ornaments, used during major court audiences.
Wood Chariot original: 木輅 (Mulu). A simplified chariot of plain wood, used for hunting or less formal travel.

Ceremonial Horse
Ceremonial Horse
Ceremonial Horse
original: 仗馬 (Zhangma). These horses were part of the imperial guard of honor. They were selected for their appearance and remained stationary to create a majestic atmosphere.

Official in Charge of Livestock original: 典牧官 (Dianmuguan). An officer from the Court of the Imperial Stud responsible for the care and presentation of the ceremonial animals.

Guide
Foreign Envoy original: 蕃使 (Fanshi). A representative or ambassador from a foreign kingdom arriving to present tribute to the Chinese Emperor.
Interpreter original: 通事 (Tongshi). An official responsible for translating between the foreign envoys and the court bureaucracy.

Official in Charge of Livestock

Procession Leader
Procession Leader
Procession Leader
original: 引班 (Yinban). Court ushers responsible for leading different ranks of officials to their correct positions in the courtyard.

Ceremonial Horse
Ceremonial Horse
Ceremonial Horse