AN EMBROIDERED GAUZE LADY'S SURCOAT (JIAGUA) QING DYNASTY, 19TH CENTURY

worked in counted stitch with eight roundels, each of a crane surrounded by butterflies, begonia, peony and chrysanthemum on a dark blue ground, each sleeve with three smaller roundels, the hem and edges of the sleeves decorated with terrestrial diagrams rising from turbulent waves churning precious objects above clouds and lishui stripe

The sleeves appear to have been narrowed and it is possible that the robe was constructed in the early 1900s from earlier yardage. There is some staining at the hem, and minor pulls to the lishui border and edges of the sleeves. Some general signs of use, but overall in good condition.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

For most official occasions, ladies of the imperial court wore surcoats over their robes. The present lot made of silk gauze would have been used during summer. Another example made from gauze and decorated with crane roundels is illustrated in John E. Vollmer, Ruling From the Dragon Throne, Costume of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), Berkeley, 2002, p. 127.