Lot 3353. A blue ground kesi dragon robe, mangpao, Qianlong period (1736-1795); 54 in. (137 cm.) long x 80 in. (203 cm.) wide. Estimate HK$300,000 - HK$500,000 ($38,872 - $64,786). Price Realized HK$475,000 ($61,533). © Christie's Image Ltd 2014

The blue kesi ground is woven with nine five-clawed mang dragons picked out in gold threads in pursuit of flaming pearls amidst multi-coloured clusters of clouds, and bats detailed in shades of red and pink, and the Eight Buddhist Emblems supported on lotus flowerheads, above sprigs of peaches and narcissus issuing from behind rockwork above rolling waves and a lishui border, with dark blue ground borders at the collar and cuffs similarly decorated. 

Note: The current robe is woven with five-clawed mang dragons on a blue ground, according to Da Qing Hui Dian, it would have been made for a first-rank prince, his heir apparent, or a second-rank prince.

Christie's. The Imperial Sale / Important Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art, Hong Kong, 28 May 2014