Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms (Volume 76: Ceremonial Systems)

Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms, Volume on Ceremonial Regulations 2

At the ceremonial table, the Master of Ceremonies original: "Yinli" (引禮) leads the Envoy, who carries the Diplomatic Memorials and Petitions Biaojian (表箋): Formal written communications presented to the throne; 'Biao' typically refers to messages for the Emperor, while 'Jian' refers to those for the Empress or Crown Prince.. They enter through the central gate, with the Local Tribute Products original: "Fangwu" (方物), specialized regional goods brought as gifts to the court. following behind as they proceed to the main hall.

The tribute products are placed at the front. The Chancellor Chengxiang (丞相): The highest-ranking civil official, often translated as Prime Minister, who assists the Emperor. presides as the Envoy carries the Diplomatic Memorials and Petitions forward to him. The Chancellor receives the documents and hands each to the attending officials original: "Zhishi" (執事). The Envoy then retreats to stand on the western side.

The official in charge of the wine vessels comes forward. The cup-bearer first presents a cup to the Chancellor. The Chancellor holds the cup, and the Envoy kneels to receive the wine. Once the drinking is finished, the Envoy retreats to his position. The Master of Ceremonies then leads the Envoy out through the western corridor.

The Ministry of Revenue Hubu (戶部): The state department responsible for finances, taxes, and the management of tribute goods. receives the tribute products and reports to the Bureau of Ceremonial Protocol Shiyisi (侍儀司): The office in charge of organizing and overseeing the etiquette of imperial audiences.. Following a rehearsal of the ritual, on the next day, all participants shall dress in Official Robes original: "Gongfu" (公服), formal attire mandated by the wearer's specific rank. according to their rank. They perform the ceremony of five bows and then exit through the Meridian Gate Wumen (午門): The primary southern gate of the imperial palace complex.. They then remove their formal robes and proceed to the Palace of the Crown Prince original: "Donggong" (東宮), literally the 'Eastern Palace,' where the heir apparent resides and conducts business. to perform the required rituals.