Qing-dynasty Blue Silk Tapestry Dragon Robe with Cloud and Bat Patterns Front View

This dragon robe is mainly made of kesi, a silk tapestry literally meaning “cut silk”, named for the cut-like edges of patterns on the foundation weave, with moonlight white gauze for its lining. It has a crew neck, a diagonal placket and horse-hoof-shaped cuffs. There are nine embroidered dragons in color on the main body of the robe, including four full-face dragons with one on chest, one on back, one on front shoulder and one on back shoulder, four flying dragons on the lower half of front panel and one on right lapel. Around these dragons scatter motifs of clouds, bats and eight auspicious treasures. The lap of this garment is decorated with patterns of seamounts and waves, signifying fortune and longevity.