Dong Taoist Shaman's Robe / Tunic with Dragon Motif

Two gold-threaded dragons meet at the front of a midnight coat.

Dong people of Guizhou Province, China, made this robe in cotton in the 20th century, a Taoist shaman’s tunic with a dragon motif. Dragons are commonly associated with power and protection across Chinese cultures. The dark indigo ground carries a pair of long, coiling dragons stitched in pale thread, facing each other along either side of the opening. Round medallions float among them, and zigzag borders run along the hem and sleeves. The inner lining is a plain tan cloth.

About 33 inches long and 31 wide. Hang it open, wings out, and let it hold the wall.