The Tiger Tally (虎符 hǔ fú) was a bronze authentication device shaped like a tiger, split into two halves. The emperor held one half, and military commanders held the other. Only when both halves matched could orders be authenticated and troops mobilised. This system prevented unauthorised use of military forces.
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)