Taoist Priest Cape

Taoism is an ancient tradition of philosophy and religious belief that is deeply rooted in Chinese customs and worldview. While court ritual was based on Confucian religion, Buddhism and Taoism were adopted as well, no doubt with the intent of helping win the confidence of Chinese society, gain respectability and forge political alliances. In cut and symbolism Manchu Taoist robes were derived from Ming and earlier dynasties.Square, full length, sleeveless robe with center front opening. A wide border is applied along the sides and hem, with an attached collar band. The lower sides are sewn together, creating hand holes at the top.The persimmon silk ground is heavily decorated and features the cosmic diagram of sun, moon, constellation, pagoda, phoenixes, clouds and three gates, all surrounded by medallions containing the Taoist immortals and auspicious symbols such as rooster and rabbit in a scatter design. All done in the labor intensive tapestry technique called kosu.