Collected Illustrations of the Three Realms (Vol. 79)

The Erudite of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices original: "Taichang Boshi," a scholar-official specialized in state ritual leads the Crown Prince forward to the front of the Imperial Throne. The Prince prostrates himself and kneels, reporting: "Your servant is unworthy; I dare not but respectfully obey your commands."

Having finished his report, he returns to his station. The attending officials descend from the hall and return to their bowing positions. The Master of Ceremonies original: "Dianyi," an official in charge of ritual choreography chants: "Bow! Rise! Bow! Rise! Bow! Rise! Bow!" The Ritual Announcer repeats the command to the officials in their ranks below, who all bow. "Bow! Rise! Bow! Rise! Bow! Rise! Straighten your bodies!"

The Attendant of Ceremonies original: "Shiyi" announces that the ritual is concluded. The Ritual Usher relays the announcement: "The ceremony is complete."

The Emperor rises. The orchestra prepares. With the clearing of the path, the attendants lead the way according to the arrival protocol until they reach the Hall of Solemnity original: "Jinshen Dian," one of the three great halls of the Forbidden City. The music ceases.

The Palace Attendant original: "Nei geishi," an official within the inner palace staff leads the Crown Prince to the inner palace to have an audience with the Empress, following the protocols used for a New Year's audience.

The Ritual Ushers lead the Chief Supervisor of the Crown Prince’s Household original: "Zhanshi" and the various ranks. They lead the Officials of the Eastern Palace the staff specifically assigned to the Crown Prince and the civil and military officials to depart in their proper order.