Lot 9195. An embroidered military rank badge, Late Qing dynasty. Estimate USD 800 ~ 1,200. Sold for US$ 1,250 (€1,125). Photo: Bonhams.

Depicting a qilin of the first rank walking amid clouds and auspicious symbols above a lishui ground, the motifs worked in a combination of brightly hued satin stitches and couched threads both gilt-wrapped and multi-colored, the sun sewn with tiny coral beads (minor wear, fading). 11 1/4 x 11 5/8in (28.5 x 29.5cm)

Bonhams'. ASIAN DECORATIVE ARTS, 10:00 PDT, SAN FRANCISCO