The Red Belt of the Qing Imperial Clan

Kinship category and visual sign

The phrase “red belt” (*hong daizi*) was used in Qing imperial-family practice as a colloquial designation and visible marker for members of the *Gioro* (*jueluo*) branch who were distinguished from the more narrowly defined imperial-clan *zongshi*. Members of this category were associated with wearing a red belt under the relevant regulations. The designation did not refer to any ordinary red waist sash worn in popular life, nor did the belt in itself constitute a senior noble title.

The distinction between *zongshi* and *jueluo* developed in the organisation of imperial kinship from the Hong Taiji period and was later associated with birth registration, the administration of the Imperial Clan Court and forms of maintenance. A *jueluo* might hold an appointment or title or might be without office, so the colour of the belt should not be read as proof of an individual career.

Documentary identification

Red belts could figure in different clothing settings, including formal court, festive, everyday and travelling attire; the decoration could vary according to rank. Historical identification should therefore begin with genealogies and records of the Imperial Clan Court rather than with a modern surname or an image of red cloth. The surname Aisin Gioro, by itself, does not establish that a particular person was recorded within the *jueluo* red-belt category at the date under consideration.

For related historical context and vocabulary, consult The Eight Banners.

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