Painted blue silk flag, Late Choson period, Korea, 1700-1899 This flag is one of the various types of military flags from the Joseon dynasty. Those flags are attached to a flagpole with leather straps, and come in five colours, with each colour symbolising one of the five directions where the troops holding the flag are positioned. The blue background here indicates the east, and its troop would have reacted to the position and movement of the flag during the battle. The tiger, symbol of courage and bravery, is dressed in military attire and moves forward while holding a spear, leading the way for its troop. Blue silk flag with a painting of a tiger dressed in military attire.