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

The dragons and shou medallions defined in gilt-wrapped couched threads surrounded by clouds, bats and ribboned symbols in subdued colors and white that also appear in the lishui border and upper sleeve bands, the collar and sleeve bands similarly embroidered on a black ground. 47 1/2in (120.5cm) long. Sold for US$5,625 

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