清末 紫地緞繡花蝶紋旗袍

with a side opening and high standing collar, worked in satin stitch with flitting butterflies amidst sprays of chrysanthemum, begonias and mallow, the design repeated on the black-ground borders and the ivory-ground cuffs, bordered with woven floral ribbon and edged in black and gold brocade with prunus and cracked-ice pattern, the inside lined with dark green silk

There are small tears on the collar, and some of the lining has been replaced, but otherwise in overall 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.

The narrow sleeves, high collar and wides decorative bands are typical of the robes worn by the ladies in the Qing court during the last years of the dynasty. This style of robe is the forerunner of the modern cheongsam.