Priest's Robe
Artist/Culture
Chinese
Artist/Culture
Taoist
Date18th Century
Mediumsatin
Dimensions139.7 cm (55 in.)
ClassificationsCostumes and Accessories
Credit LineMuseum purchase
Object number1918.11
DescriptionYellow satin, bands of applique embroidery in colors and gold around the bottom, edges of the sleeves, and the front. Embroidered design on the back.Label TextReligious or popular Daoism differs from the philosophical Daoism of ancient China. By the fifth century a cross-fertilization of idea occurred between religious Daoism and popular Buddhism (see Daoist sculpture, 1962.173, on opposite wall). Popular Daoism offered its adherents community, priesthood, and the promise of immortality and of supernatural powers. Its priests controlled traditional Chinese medicine, geomancy, and divination. They also functioned as exorcists, healers and conducted funerals. The priests of popular Daoism wore full-length robes decorated with motifs that symbolized immortality and the balance and harmony of the universe such as the watchtower-like palace, mountains, clouds and waves seen on this garment. (Buddhists priests' mantles [kesa] are on view in the adjacent Japanese gallery.)
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