Yatai Imperial Sashimono

 


This sashimono (war banner) is the main symbol of the Yatai Empire.

It is said that Yamaru Okimi (Great King or Emperor) received this banner directly from the hands of the Goddess of the Cherry Tree located at the shrine of Haeda, who is said to have descended from the sky to bring prosperity and safeguard the islands from demons and evil forces.



The banner represents the red of dawn with the golden sun rising in the sky. In the centre of the sun, according to traditional, stands the sacred five-petalled cherry blossom, view by Yamoru when the Goddess decided to show herself to him. 



No other clan, not even the clans of imperial origin, are allowed to use this bright red (known as Dawn Red) and gold. Neither for clothing, nor for banners and standards. 

The powerful Masa had to make do with carmine and the Kokuden, the most powerful demonic clan, with garnet red.

Throughout Yatai's history, only the ninjia clan of the red monkey had the honour of wearing this colour, provided it was never associated with gold.

The Daiasu clan, that gained the right to wears and display the golden color, but never use with bright red, in  respect of imperial colors.



Although the throne has its own armed forces, these are rarely brought into battle. In fact, the emperor honours the diarchy of powers with the Shogun and leaves military affairs to the supreme commander. However, when the very existence of the state hangs in the balance, the standard is assigned to the commander of the armies in the field, or if the situation is very difficult to the emperor himself and his imperial guard.

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