The Vexillum was a rectangular banner or flag that was attached to a pole. A Vexillum was the standard for an auxiliary. The main background color for the banner was red. This standard identified the legion and other units of the legion that were serving away from the "main body" of the legion, called vexillations. The banner would name the unit type of legion or cohort along with its unit number. The unit number would be written in Roman numerals. Written on the banner was also an abbreviation that represented an honorary title given to the legion or cohort, which was also known as the Cognomen. This specific title had been awarded to the military unit. The image of an effigy (figure) or an animal would sometimes be put in the center of a banner. Tassels were hung from each side of the crossbar and fringe bordered the bottom of the banner. This standard was also used as a signal to prepare for battle if it was hanging above the commander's tent.