In ancient China, mao (banner tassels), jie (tally tokens), jing (ceremonial flags), and qi (flags) held great…
In ancient China, mao (banner tassels), jie (tally tokens), jing (ceremonial flags), and qi (flags) held great significance within the rituals of state.
The jie was a royal token of authority, while the mao was a yak-tail-adorned pole; together as maojie, they symbolized military command. The jing were flags, and the qi were silk flags marking rank and directing armies.
Over time, their distinctions blurred, and all were collectively called maojie, representing power, military command, and status.