Chinese Imperial Jifu Silk Dragon Robe, Qing Dynasty, 19th Century
Item Details
A Chinese Imperial Jifu Kesi silk robe displaying delicately drawn and embroidered motifs on blue ground, Qing Dynasty, 19th century. The men’s robe prominently features nine resplendent five-clawed dragons (one hidden on inside panel) in gold metallic embroidery, a highly proportioned lishui embroidered border at the hem with crashing waves, a central mountain, roundels and auspicious symbols throughout. As a semi-official robe, the garment would have been worn by a minor prince, highly ranking official or noble (denoted by the 9th dragon) for government business. The summer robe is lined in blue silk and has been designed with traditional detailing important to the Manchu people who were horsemen to include fasteners at the side, horse shoe cuffs and deep center vents at both the front and back.
Condition
- the overall condition of the robe is good with some inevitable flaws considering age and wear. There are several small holes at the front of the robe and at the sleeves, slight shredding at each shoulder and several minor stains at the hem. The blue silk lining is intact and all brass buttons are in place. The silk colors remain vivid with only minor fading noticeable between the inside panels and the outer robe.
Dimensions
- width measurement reflects sleeves extended.
Item #
ITMG260147
