Antique Dragon Robes

I love my stunning dragon robe from the 19th century which I found going for a song on Ebay. It is worn and fragile in places but the extensive silver work and rich embroidery is totally sublime.  I framed it in a mahogany and glass box and have it in my dressing room, and it’s currently my favourite thing in the house. 

In Chinese culture, the dragon symbolizes imperial authority, strength and good luck and has been associated with Chinese emperors from at least the first century B.C.E. Robes featuring five-clawed dragons were only worn by the emperor and his selected court members of high distinction.  The dragons swim on a sea of intricately patterned material, with geometric designs, natural scenes and waves.