Victorian Silk Qing Dynasty Robe, Red Chinese Empress with Dragon Embroidery

A valuable and collectible artifact and technically, NOT a kimono!. From the late 1800s to early 1900s when the more vibrant aniline dyes became available. All silk with fine and detailed hand embroidery, there are no Forbidden Stitches here! The 5 claw dragon is featured, which means it was made for emperor's immediate family. This one has a lot of florals and there was one empress who favored them. Outstanding colors are red and blue (yin/yang). The repeated motif story is of an emperor riding a dragon (the most sacred of all symbols) and an empress riding a phoenix which represents refinement and harmony. NOT PERFECT! There are faint spots which did not photograph, mostly up around the shoulders. If you enlarge the photos you will see other flaws, like embroidered panels around neck coming loose. It's fully lined in more silk. See all photos, OK? There are a LOT of them! Wear with care! bust/chest: 41'' length 42'' Offers OK