Universal Encyclopedia, Volume 8: Ceremonial Systems III

Armored Soldier　Turtle Beak Flag Blue armor, Square formation　　　　　　　　　　　Net Flag Blue armor, Square formation　Armored Soldier
original: "紫旗" (Ziqi) and "畢旗" (Biqi). These represent two of the seven mansions of the Western White Tiger. The "Purple" here refers specifically to the Zi mansion. The gloss "青甲 方" indicates the soldiers wore blue armor and were arranged in a square (Fang) block.

These officials represent the civil and disciplinary oversight of the procession. The "Keeper of the Seals" (Shangbao) was responsible for the imperial regalia, while the "Investigating Censor" (Jiancha Yushi) maintained order and protocol.

Ceremonial Fan
Seal Stand Four people
Ceremonial Fan
　　　　　　　　　　　　Incense Altar Four people, Palanquin
Ceremonial Fan
Seal Stand Four people
Ceremonial Fan
This central cluster contains the "Jeweled Stands" (Bao'an) used to carry the Emperor’s official seals, and the "Incense Stand" (Xiang'an), which emitted fragrant smoke to purify the path of the procession. Each was carried by four attendants.

Armored Soldier　Wings Flag Blue armor, Square formation　　　　　　　　　　　Extended Net Flag Blue armor, Square formation　Armored Soldier
original: "翼旗" (Yiqi) and "張旗" (Zhangqi). These represent mansions of the Southern Vermilion Bird. The repetition of "Blue armor" suggests a specific color-coding for this section of the vanguard.