Yellow Silk Dragon Robe for Empress or Imperial Consort

A yellow silk satin robe embroidered with metal-wrapped threads and multi-coloured silk floss. The nine dragon design contains three dragons on the front and back of the robe, one on either shoulder, and a symbolic ninth dragon hidden under the flap inside the robe.The robe opens on the wearer's right side and is fastened with small brass buttons and brocade loops. There are side vents on the robe skirt. Black silk satin sleeves are bordered by embroidered sleeve bands and horse hoof cuffs. The embroidered trim around the neckline, cuffs, and sleeve bands is edged by a narrow gray and gold metal-wrapped thread brocade trim. The bottom hem has angled standing water waves that are capped with ruyi-shaped waves. The lining is a pale blue silk damask fabric with an abstract floral design. As outlined in the Huangchao liqi tushi, the ranks of imperial women were distinguished by their wardrobe, including the colour of their garments.