Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms: Ceremonial Regulations

The outer perimeter consists of standard infantry units, providing a protective shell for the internal ceremonial elements.

The color of the armor corresponds to the Five Elements; green represents the East (Wood) and red represents the South (Fire).

The Azure Dragon (Qinglong) is the mythological guardian of the East.

The "Earth" (Tu) designation likely refers to units representing the Central element in the Five Phases system, acting as a stabilizing force within the formation.

The inclusion of the Astronomical Bureau (Sitiantai) highlights the importance of celestial timing and cosmic harmony in imperial movements.

The Hanlin Academy represents the highest level of state scholarship and clerical support.

The "Yellow Signal" (Huanghui) is a large command flag used to direct the movement of the entire procession. The "Timekeeper" (Sichen) official was responsible for announcing the hours, ensuring the ceremony followed the calculated auspicious timing.

In the original woodblock print, the following section is printed upside-down relative to the top half, indicating that these units flank the opposite side of the central axis.

White armor represents the West (Metal element).

The White Tiger (Baihu) is the mythological guardian of the West.