Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms: Volume 3, Military Arts

Page 11

These columns represent specialized units and their ceremonial equipment. The "Feathered Canopy Banners" (yubaochuang: ceremonial flags adorned with feathers) and "Dragon-head Poles" symbolize imperial majesty. The "Leopard Tail Guards" (baoweijun) were a traditional elite escort, while the "Halt Signal Streamers" and "Command Heralds" were functional elements used to coordinate the movement and stopping of the massive procession.

original: "Zifangsan, Zhongshusheng guan, Dadudufu guan." This row indicates the placement of the highest levels of government. The Secretariat handled civil administration, while the Grand Commander’s Office oversaw military affairs. The "Purple Square Umbrellas" are prestigious regalia held over these high-ranking officials to signify their status.

The diagram repeats the formation symmetrically on both sides of the central path. This mirroring ensures that whether viewed from the left or the right, the Emperor’s procession appears perfectly balanced and impenetrable.