Dragon Robe (Mangpao) Woven from Gold Thread

This faded crimson robe depicts a dragon as well as various kinds of auspicious symbols: clouds and cranes(symbols of longevity); a pair of fish and the precious umbrella (two of the cight buddhist Treasures); and a carp-shaped drum and a fan(both Daiost symbols). Thought to create life, a carp-shaped drum is an attribute of Zuang Guo-lao(張果老) one of the Eight Daoist Immortals. Originating in the Tang Dynasty, this immortal is usually depicted riding a donkey, sometimes backwards or standing on his head. A fan, thought to repel death, is the attribute of another Immortal, Zhong Li-chuan(漢鐘離). The rising water on the bottom portion of the robe was woven with gold thread, making fine creases. Among the waves is a vase holding a trident, a pattern signifying the with for a three-rank promotion in the government.