Manchu Man’s Informal Summer Court Robe with Design of Four-Clawed Dragons Chasing Flaming Pearls

This informal summer court robe was made from dark blue gauze to be worn by a prince of the first or second rank. The main motif of nine four-clawed dragons (mang), one of which is hidden under the front flap, is couched in gold and colored silk threads. The dragons chase pearls with crimson flames amidst gold clouds, interspersed with red bats, floral sprays, and other auspicious motifs. The hem has a design of wavy gold bands of “standing water” (lishui) couched with gold threads and decorated with floral sprays embroidered with colored silk threads in satin stitch. The garment is unlined except for the interior of the sleeve extensions and cuffs, which are lined with light blue silk damask.