Chou Collection, Middle Volume
Radical: Hempen (fěn)
Page 1018, Entry 15
Pronounced fěn (rising tone). Explaining the character in the Analytical Dictionary of Characters (Shuowen Jiezi): The ceremonial robes of emperors and kings are adorned with patterns of mountains, dragons, and variegated pheasants; these are outlined using fěn, appearing as if dusted with powder. The Jade Chapters (Yupian) states: Fěn refers to color. It is also written as fěn mǐ (powdered grain). The Book of Documents (Shangshu), chapter Benefiting the Harvest (Yiji), records: The ceremonial robes contain patterns of water weeds, flames, and powdered grain, along with black and white alternating axe-shaped designs and blue-black alternating sub-shaped patterns, crafted from fine kudzu cloth or embroidery. Kong Anguo’s commentary states: Fěn resembles frost crystals on grains of millet, and mǐ resembles gathered grains of rice. The Explanatory Text (Shiwen) notes: Powdered grain is written as fěn in the Analytical Dictionary of Characters (Shuowen Jiezi).