Peking University (1917-1949)

The seal of Peking University was designed in 1917 by renowned writer Lu Xun, while the flag was designed by Cai Yuanpei, President of Peking University from 1916 to 1927. According to Cai, the red-blue-yellow tricolour represents the sciences, specifically 'phenomenal science' (physics, chemistry. etc.), 'occurring science' (history, evolution), and 'systemic science' (botany, zoology, physiology); the white hoist represents philosophy which emcompasses the sciences; and the black university seal represents 'xuanxue' (metaphysics) which cannot be proven by science. This flag has not been used since 1949.