A brown silk formal robe, chifu. Late 19th century. Photo Bonhams.

Embroidered in gilt thread with writhing dragons chasing flaming pearls, amidst cloud scrolls, bats, shou emblems, auspicious objects and floral baskets, above rockwork and crashing waves, the borders embellished with lishui stripes, framed. 132cm (52in) long. Estimate £4,000 - 6,000 (€4,900 - 7,300)

Bonhams. ASIAN ART, London, Knightsbridge, 12 May 2014 - http://www.bonhams.com