Lot 278. A turquoise-ground concubine's formal court robe, jifu, 19th century. Estimate GBP 4,000 - GBP 6,000 (USD 5,116 - USD 7,674) © Christie's Images Ltd 2017

The robe is decorated with nine five-clawed dragons in couched gilt thread, surrounded by ruyi-clouds and bats, interspersed with auspicious symbols, all above a band of waves scattered with emblems and lishui stripes to the hem.

Note: Turquoise robes were reserved for concubines and female members of the court.

Christie's. Chinese Ceramics, Works of Art and Textiles, 12 May 2017, London, South Kensington