Manchu military banner of the White Banner Regiment

The Manchus formed a hereditary banner system in 1601, requiring all Manchu men to be enrolled in one of the four banner regiments. The original regiments were distinguished by their solid yellow, white, red, and blue triangular flags with serrated borders. Prince Dorgon commanded the white regiment. Flags such as these, embellished with dragons in couched gold, were used primarily in ceremonies and military reviews.