Bow Down to the Bling

The Qing Dynasty ruled China from 1644 to 1911, ending when child-emperor Puyi was deposed. The last imperial Chinese court was defined by fashion, an elaborate visual style marking the most dominant players in society. Threads of Heaven: Silken Legacy of China’s Last Dynasty features opulent tapestries, clothing, jewelry, and shoes from an age when dragons—the Vuitton logo of their day—could be worn by only the most powerful. Feb 7—May 18, Taft Museum of Art, taftmuseum.org