A BLUE-GROUND EMBROIDERED DRAGON ROBE, JIFU QING DYNASTY, 19TH CENTURY

the blue ground woven with eight dragons in pursuit of flaming pearls amid scrolling clouds, flowers, bats, Buddhist lions and the bajixiang, all above two carp leaping from cresting waves and a lishui bordered hem, striped sleeve extenders with matching embroidered black horse-hoof cuffs and gold edges

Acquired by the father of the present owner in the UK between 1920 and 1940.

Both sleeves were folded and shortened, with stitches visible from the inner lining. There are general tear and wear, including around the frontal dragon (approx. 10cm), horizontal tears on the inner dark blue panel (approx. 10cm), tears on the inner light-blue lining near the bottom edge and around the buttons, and one at the corner of the bottom slit (5 x 0.2cm). The button holder below the right sleeve was torn and repaired. There is a 5 x 1cm area of repair to the reverse below the lower right dragon. The gold stripes on the sleeves are loose on the reverse. There are fraying threads in general and the dragon eyes may have been re-stitched. The colours are well-preserved.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."