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A fine Chinese semi-formal silk nine-dragon Longpao robe Jifu,…
Sale Title:
Auction House:
Auction Location:
Melbourne
Date:
25-Oct-2015
Lot No.
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Description:
A fine Chinese semi-formal silk nine-dragon Longpao robe Jifu, Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), probably Guangxu period, late 19th century, the fine burgundy silk ground embroidered with nine gilt-thread long dragons grasping at 'Flaming pearls' as seen to the front and back, shoulders and lowers panels, against brightly coloured ruyi clouds, cranes, shou medallions, bajixiang emblems, bats suspending shou characters, the symbol for longevity, all indications of the wearer's wish for a 'Long and happy life', above crashing waves and a tall golden lishui border, the collar and cuffs with further dragons and striped sleeves, 138.5 cm high. Catalogue note: this is a fine example of the richly patterned summer male dragon robes, characteristically worn by Mandarins of the provincial court. Robes such as these were produced in only two colours, burgundy and blue, burgundy such as this one, being the colour of the higher-ranking officials, blue the colour of the lower ranks. This robe is a very fine example of the workmanship produced by the new looms that were introduced during this period, the steam jacquard looms, horse-shoe cuff sleeves, typical of Qing court costume, original gilt buttons. Reference: for an almost identical robe, please refer to 'Dressed to Rule: Imperial Robes of China', National Gallery of Victoria, April - September, 2009, for the lower ranking version of the same in blue, please see Mossgreen, Melbourne, 16-17 November, 2009, lot 110, also see 'Dressed to Rule: Imperial Robes of China', National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne, 17 April - 6 September, 2009
Estimate:
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Price:
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Category:
Unclassified