Chinese 5-Claw Gold Dragon Robe Fragment

Chinese silk embroidered robe fragment on blue silk depicting a five-clawed golden dragon chasing a flaming pearl. The dragon is surrounded by soaring bats and swirling clouds in the five imperial colors. Below the dragon are rolling waves from which a tri-peaked landmass rises. In many dynasties, a dragon with five claws was a symbol of the emperor. In the Qing dynasty, the dragon was colored yellow or gold, depicted flying amongst clouds above a rolling waves. The blue coloration suggests that this may have been a robe for a minor prince or nobleman as this was the Qing dynasty's official color. This is an exceptionally well-done embroidery with lustrous golden silk and details.

Literature: Many similar examples can be seen in Linda Wrigglesworth & Gary Dickinson, "Imperial Wardrobe," (Berkely, California: Ten Speed Press, 2000), pg. 76-96.
Sight; diameter: 19 1/2 in. Framed; height: 26 in x width: 24 in.

Condition Report: The item is in great condition with no visible tears, rips, or losses. When inspected under UV light, there is no visible sign of restoration under UV light. Very light wear to the frame. Framed under plexiglass; not inspected out of frame.