Robe For A Statue (China), late 18th century (CH 18433879)

Small robe, possibly for a statue, with a tiny rounded neckline and asymmetrical closure, with yellow silk ties at the neck and side; side openings are edged with bright blue silk. In yellow silk tapestry weave, kesi, with metallic gold dragons on the front, back, shoulders and sleeves. The ground is filled with clouds motifs in blue and green; flaming pearls, bats, and other auspicious symbols. At the bottom is a deep wave border of multicolored diagonal stripes.
This small robe was most likely used to clothe a deity statue in a Daoist temple. The 5-clawed dragon and the bright yellow color were symbols of the Emperor of China, indicating that this robe was an imperial donation to a temple or used to clothe an image of a legendary emperor.