Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms, Volume 18: Ceremonial Systems 2

Page 51

This diagram illustrates the spatial arrangement of the imperial guard and specific gate officials during a high ceremony. The labels represent the physical positions of individuals relative to the gates of the palace complex. The arrangement is perfectly symmetrical to represent the balance and order of the Ming imperial court.

Guard Guard Guard Guard
original: 護衛 (Huwei). These were elite personal bodyguards assigned to protect the Emperor and maintain the perimeter of the ritual space.

original: 將軍 (Jiangjun). In this ceremonial context, the title refers to high ranking officers of the Imperial Guard who stood at attention to display military might.

Gate

Officials of the Arch-Guard Command
original: 拱衛司官 (Gongweisi Guan). The Arch-Guard Command was a specialized military office early in the Ming dynasty responsible for the Emperor’s personal security and the discipline of the palace guard.

Gate

Officials of the Arch-Guard Command

Gate

Guard Guard Guard Guard