Threads of the Way: Daoist Priest Robes from China’s Qing Dynasty –– Minneapolis Institute of Art
Photograph of an outstretch Daoist robe with long sleeves, with white fabric at the cuffs and beige fabric with orange, yellow, and brown embroidery on the body
China, Qing dynasty Daoist priest's robe, 19th century, silk, cotton. The John R. Van Derlip Fund. 42.8.293

Threads of the Way: Daoist Priest Robes from China’s Qing Dynasty

Threads of the Way: Daoist Priest Robes from China’s Qing Dynasty

August 30, 2025 - February 1, 2026
Robert and Marlyss White Gallery (Gallery 281)
Free Exhibition

Daoism, one of China’s major belief systems, envisions a universe guided by harmony and natural order. Emerging as an organized religion after 100 CE, Daoism developed sacred texts, temples, and a celestial pantheon. Among its vivid rituals are embroidered priestly robes—chiefly the sleeveless jiangyi and the long-sleeved daopao. These garments, rich in cosmic symbolism, feature diagrams of paradise, sacred mountains, phoenixes, and zodiac animals. Worn during rituals, they transform priests into embodiments of the cosmos.

Drawn from Mia’s collection, this exhibition reveals the spiritual depth, artistic brilliance, and ritual significance woven into these rare Daoist robes.

China, Qing dynasty Daoist priest's robe, 19th century, silk, cotton. The John R. Van Derlip Fund. 42.8.293