A Chinese Blue Ground Embroidered Dragon Robe

Qing dynasty (1644-1912), 19th century, blue ground silk gauze Jifu, finely embroidered with nine resplendent five clawed dragons worked in metallic gold thread and interspersed with ruyi clouds, peony blossoms, bats, and eternal knots, all above a lower border of lishui stripe surmounted with mountains representing the universe, the collar and horseshoe cuffs embellished with dragons, gold buttons line the edges, overall a spectacular example of the high standards achieved in silk embroidery during the Qing dynasty.

55 x 77 1/2 in.
Robes bearing frontal five-clawed dragons were only worn during the Qing dynasty by the imperial family, and the blue color primarily for the princes. Silk gauze robes like this one were worn during the summer months due to the heat and humidity. They were embroidered with the same decoration and motifs as the silk satin robes worn during the colder seasons, but in a lighter fabric.

Being Sold to Benefit The Georgia Museum of Art's Collections
Additional high-resolution photos are available at www.lelandlittle.com

Immaculate color to reverse side of robe; front side of robe faded from light of previous frame enclosure, pink and red pigments especially; some very minor loose threads; a small blackened burn spot to lower back side in one wave curl; some discreet pin holes from former display mounting.