Homage to the Highest Power

Homage to the Highest Power (朝元圖) is a prime example of Daoist paintings in the Royal Ontario Museum collection.

Based on the strong stylistic affinities, this work can also be dated to the Yuan dynasty.

Daoist theology advocates the concept of Dao (the Way), a primeval force which gives form to all things in the universe.

It shows a procession of heavenly beings moving at a leisurely pace to pay homage to the Supreme Power.

He leads nine star spirits, female attendants with plant offerings, three important deities, and personifications of the twelve Earthly Branches.