Emperor's 12-sign semiformal dragon robe (jifu)
Medium:Satin embroidered in silk and gold thread
Geography: China
Date: c. 1780-1796
Period: Qianlong (r. 1735-1795), Qing Dynasty
Dimensions:147.5 x 191 cm
Object number: 919.6.24
Credit Line: The George Crofts Collection, Gift of the Robert Simpson Co. Ltd.
DescriptionThe emperor alone had the right wear to bright yellow silk, 5-clawed frontal dragons, and the 12 symbols of sovereignty. Sky (clouds), sea (waves) and land (mountains) represent the emperor’s authority over all creation. Worn for ceremonies to bridge heaven and earth.
