Imperial dragon Roundel Surcoat
China
Late 19th Century
156cm cuff to cuff x 140cm neck to hem

An exceptionally rare example of a fourth-rank imperial princess’ winter surcoat of midnight blue silk decorated with 8 roundels and deep ‘rainbow’ striped border. The dragon’s on the chest and back, displaying profile dragons, are the wearer’s insignia. To complete the design, the shoulder and lower four roundels have been decorated with Qi or ‘Energy’ dragons, Lightly padded for winter wear and lined with yellow silk.