The Xizang Museum in Lhasa, capital of the Xizang autonomous region, opened its first special exhibition dedicated to silk culture on Friday, unveiling more than 80 exquisite silk artifacts, many of which are being displayed to the public for the first time.

Curator Sonam Drolma said the museum houses over 1,000 silk relics. "These artifacts continue to symbolize and enrich our aspirations for a beautiful life," she said at the opening ceremony.

The exhibition brings together treasures from museums along the ancient Silk Road in Gansu and Sichuan provinces, as well as the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. According to curator Sonam Tso, the oldest exhibits date back to the Han and Jin dynasties (206 BC–420).

Among the highlights is a small brocade fragment from the Xinjiang Museum, featuring flowing cloud patterns alongside horses, deer and qilin, a mythical creature in Chinese culture, reflecting the artistic vitality of the era.

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.

To enrich visitors' experience, the museum is also hosting a festive market, fashion shows inspired by traditional designs, and interactive workshops introducing silk-making techniques.