Daoist priest’s robe (jiangyi), Kangxi Period (1662–1722). Embroidered satin, 137.2 × 194.9 cm (length: from neck peak to hem; width: cuff hem to cuff hem). Minneapolis Institute of Art, The John R. Van Derlip Fund, 42.8.297.

Cloth for this type of ritual Daoist garment, known as jiangyi, is often black, red, green, yellow, or white (the five symbolic colors of the universe), and the embroidered decoration is done in gold-wrapped thread. This robe has the “cosmic diagram” on the back and yin and yang symbols on the front.

Daoist priest’s robe (jiangyi), Kangxi Period (1662–1722). Embroidered satin, 146.1 × 189.2 cm (length: from neck peak to hem; width: cuff hem to cuff hem). Minneapolis Institute of Art, The John R. Van Derlip Fund, 42.8.300.

The most notable feature of many Daoist robes is the “cosmic diagram” on the upper back. This usually square composition contains various celestial symbols. The design represents cosmic harmony and reflects Daoism’s focus on cosmology—the order and origin of the universe.

Daoist priest’s robe (jiangyi), late 18th century Embroidered and appliqued satin. Minneapolis Institute of Art, The John R. Van Derlip Fund, 41.74.1.