A yellow silk ground embroidered dragon robe. 19th century.  Photo Bonhams

The nine dragons rendered with gilt-wrapped threads in a couched technique surrounded by satin stitches in brightly colored threads defining cloud scrolls, auspicious symbols and the wide lishui border, the black ground collar band and cuffs embroidered en suite. 52in (132cm) long. Estimate: US$20,000 - 30,000. Unsold

Bonhams. Fine Asian Works of Art, 20 Dec 2011. California, San Francisco www.bonhams.com