Late Qing DynastyThe robe finely worked in satin stitch on the front and back panels with butterflies fluttering amidst gilt shou medallions, all picked out in vibrant shades of pink, blue, turquoise and mauve against a bright red ground, the design repeated on the dark border, the sleeve bands decorated with blossoming peonies, chrysanthemums and prunus, the edgings with leiwen motifs picked out in gold and black. 127cm (50in) long.