A special exhibition on the rich history and culture of silk is kicked off on Feb 6, at the Xizang Museum in Lhasa, capital of the Xizang autonomous region. [Photo by Palden Nyima/chinadaily.com.cn]

Beyond brocade art, the exhibition also features temple decorations such as pillar wraps, canopies and Buddhist robes, as well as Qing Dynasty (1644–1911) dragon robes and imperial garments. Museum guide Kunkyi highlighted a ceremonial twelve-symbol dragon robe embroidered in gold on yellow satin. Historical records show such robes were often bestowed by Qing emperors on distinguished officials and local leaders, serving as symbols of recognition and strengthening ties between central and regional authorities.