Diagram of Instructional Flags

South

original: "Wu" (午), the earthly branch corresponding to the south on a traditional compass.

▢

This central square likely represents the commander's raised platform or the central goal of the drill.

North

original: "Zi" (子), the earthly branch corresponding to the north. Victory Decision Eight Men Left 1 Left 2 Left 3 Left 4 Left 5 Victory Decision Eight Men Right 1 Right 2 Right 3 Right 4 Right 5

Military Commissioner of the Left Wing Military Commissioner of the Right Wing

The Six Great Standards

Liu dao (六纛): Massive ceremonial banners, often decorated with animal hair or feathers, representing the supreme authority of the army's high command.

Banner Staff

original: "Jie" (節), a ceremonial staff or tally used as a symbol of imperial commission.

Drums and Horns Horns and Drums

Grand General

Gate Banner Gate Banner

Cavalry Unit Cavalry Unit

Yellow Flag○ White Flag○ Azure Flag○ Red Flag○ Black Flag○ Military Superintendent○ Censor○ Black Flag○ Red Flag○ Azure Flag○ White Flag○ Yellow Flag○

The flags represent the Five Elements and the five cardinal directions: Yellow (Center), White (West), Azure (East), Red (South), and Black (North). The Military Superintendent and Censor were officials placed within the formation to monitor discipline and ensure the rules of the drill were followed.