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Lot Essay
This robe is an example of the superb quality of the late Qing Empire's Imperial workshops. It bears all 12 symbols of Authority, that is: the moon and sun, the axe, the shou character, the millet, firey weed, dragons and phoenix, green weed, libation cups and the two constellations representing heaven and earth.
The Emperor's robes were extremely important to indicate that all the elements of the Qing world view were in their correct order. The robes are, in fact, the physical embodiment of Imperial Authority, in which the Son of Heaven rules over the Earth. As is the case for all aspects of court life, dress was strictly regulated by edict, and all variations and permutations were defined and assigned to specific ranks and occasions.
The body of this robe has been later relined in yellow silk, and the buttons and loops have been replaced in the 20th century, probably by the present vendors.
The Emperor's robes were extremely important to indicate that all the elements of the Qing world view were in their correct order. The robes are, in fact, the physical embodiment of Imperial Authority, in which the Son of Heaven rules over the Earth. As is the case for all aspects of court life, dress was strictly regulated by edict, and all variations and permutations were defined and assigned to specific ranks and occasions.
The body of this robe has been later relined in yellow silk, and the buttons and loops have been replaced in the 20th century, probably by the present vendors.