263 - China, Qing Dynasty, Jifu court robe. 1880–1910. The term “jifu” refers to the semi-formal ritual robe of the court, also known as the “dragon robe” due to the intricate decorative motifs that typically adorned it.The robe is made of bright blue silk with gold embroidery depicting, on the front and back, three five-clawed dragons (typical of high-ranking attire) chasing flaming pearls. Embroidered in gold on the background are the symbols of the eight precious treasures; at the bottom, a wide ruffle with diagonal gold lines represents the deep ocean (lishui); rocks emerge from the waves above, positioned at the four cardinal points to symbolize the stability of the Earth. Two dragons are also embroidered on the shoulders of the robe, and one is strategically hidden inside the right front panel, visible only when the robe moves, for a total of nine dragons—as traditionally featured on imperial robes (eight visible on the outside—on the chest, back, shoulders, and skirt—and one inside the flap). The sleeves are finished with ultra-lightweight black textured silk, and the cuffs feature gold embroidery on a brown background. Along the neckline and opening, a brown border with gold embroidery depicting dragons and symbols of good fortune. Lining in pale blue and cobalt blue silk. Long central opening at the front and back. Five decorative gold spherical buttons. Dimensions: length 139 cm (from collar to hem), width 200 cm (from cuff to cuff). (1) Signs of wear (the thin black fabric lining the ends of the sleeves is torn).