A red-ground embroidered gauze 'dragon' robe, jifu, Qing dynasty, 18th - 19th century | 清十八至十九世紀 紅地納紗繡金龍雲壽紋吉服袍

Of luscious vermillion tone, adorned with regal dragons in the typical ‘nine dragon’ design, the present lot is a fine piece of textile craftsmanship. Adorned with five-clawed dragons, a symbol reserved for use only by the imperial family, this robe, of semi-formal design, would have been a remarkable sight when worn as part of a festive occasion. Though bright yellow robes worn by the emperor and duller yellow and blue pieces worn by princes and lesser members of the imperial family respectively are well attested, it is rare to find a robe of this bright red colour, let alone of this quality. An auspicious colour associated with fire and good fortune, red clothing was (and continues to be) worn on festive occasions including weddings and birthdays.  

Compare a related red robe with dragons and clouds in medallions in the collection of the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (acc. no. 52-36-1); and one of a more subdued plum colour in the collection of the Museum of New Zealand (acc. no. FE001939). Compare also a related red robe of slimmer form sold in these rooms, 10th June 2021, lot 180.