An Emperor's Twelve Symbol robe of yellow silk kesi

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An Emperor's Twelve Symbol robe of yellow silk kesi
woven with nine gilt dragons with auspicious emblems and the Twelve Symbols of Imperial Authority against a ground of scrolling clouds, with a sea-wave border below, trimmed with borders and horse-shoe cuffs of midnight blue silk kesi, with gilt-striped lower sleeves of yellow silk kesi, second half of the 19th century, (side seams altered, possibly relined, lower sleeves possibly replaced, some slight wear)
See Illustration and Front Cover (detail)

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No VAT will be charged on the hammer price, but VAT at 17.5% will be added to the buyer's premium which is invoiced on a VAT inclusive basis.

Lot Essay

The Twelve Symbols of Imperial Authority are prescribed for the use of the Emperor and his immediate family. Each symbolises an aspect of the Emperor's authority - the millet grain representing the harvest, for example. For a full discussion of each symbol see Imperial Wardrobe, Gary Dickinson and Linda Wrigglesworth, pages 76-96.

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