Before ID or CCCD, people still had their own ways to prove their identity.
Illustration.
In modern society, we often use papers to prove our identity. Identity card or citizen identity card has become a mandatory essential item in daily life. However, humans have known proof of identity long before that, evidence for this is found in Chinese history.
Since ancient times, the Chinese have used hand-polished bamboo pieces to engrave names, occupations, and have the imperial seal to prove their status. People always keep and preserve this object very carefully.
For court officials, the “fish symbol” was used to prove identity. In different positions, icons are made of different materials.
For princes and high officials, the fish symbol is made of gold; for mid-level officials, the fish symbol is made of silver; For low-ranking officials, this item is made of brass or wood.
The “fish symbol” also has a small hole engraved for convenient wearing, the face is engraved with the name of the mandarin, rank, and official position in accordance with the principles. In addition, in some dynasties, the “fish symbol” was changed to “tortoise symbol” and divided into three levels (golden turtle, silver turtle and bronze turtle) to serve as proof of each person’s identity.