Lot 459. An important and extremely rare imperial yellow hanging with five dragons, 18th-19th century; 469 cm x 475 cm. Sold: €50 000 (Estimate €30 000 - €50 000). Photo Nagel Auction.

In the center a frontal dragon chasing a flaming pearl, flanked by two more dragons, each with a pearl. The clouds are spherical and connected. Scattered Shou characters, red bats and the Buddhist treasures. The pattern extends over the frame in dark blue.

Provenance: Old European private collection, assembled before 1980.

Note: Such hangings were used to separate areas in the imperial palace, but also to cover walls. Imperial yellow hangings are intended for the emperor and only a few people in his immediate family circle. The Shou characters may indicate that this hanging was used as a backdrop for a throne at a birthday celebration.

Reference: Cf. Smithonian, National Museum of Asian Art, inv. no. S1991.142.

Fine Asian Art - Day I by Nagel Auction, June 12, 2023 • Stuttgart, Germany