The Bow of Diaochan (雕弓 diāo gōng) was an ornate ceremonial bow associated with Diaochan, the legendary beauty who played a pivotal role in the downfall of Dong Zhuo. While primarily a symbol of refinement and nobility, the bow represented the cultured arts valued by the Han aristocracy.
Historical context
The Three Kingdoms period saw extensive use of various weapons and artifacts, each carrying both practical military value and symbolic significance. Weapons were often named and became associated with their famous wielders, passing into legend through the Romance of the Three Kingdoms.
References
- Chen Shou, Records of the Three Kingdoms (三国志)
- Luo Guanzhong, Romance of the Three Kingdoms (三国演义)