An imperial yellow silk court robe or chi-fu, late 19th century, early 20th century

embroidered with the Twelve Symbols of Imperial Authority, later tailoring. Est. £10,000 - £15,000 - Price Realised £42,050

Provenance: Mrs Anne Moen Bullitt

Notes: The style of cuff here looks more like a Manchu lady's wedding robe and the lining is not of Imperial quality, suggesting that the yardage may have been mounted outside the Imperial Palace workshops.

Christie's. Chinese Ceramics, Works of Art & Textiles. 15 May 2009. London, South Kensington www.christies.com