RARE IMPERIAL YELLOW-GROUND SILK BROCADE 'DRAGON' PANEL QING DYNASTY, QIANLONG PERIOD of rectangular form, delicately woven in lampas technique, with two impressive gilt-couched five-clawed golden dragons chasing a flaming pearl above crashing waves and mountains in different shades of blue, green and creamy white colour, framed (Dimensions: 46cm x 83cm) (Qty: 1) (46cm x 83cm) Qty: (1) Footnote: Provenance: Private Edinburgh collection, acquired from Lyon & Turnbull, 1960s. With a corresponded original framed letter (illustrated) composed by Miss M.F. Willis, stating that her uncle, Major General Swanton acquired this piece in Beijing, 1840. Although, historically, 1860 is more likely to be accurate. The brocade, according to the letter, was then given to Miss Willis' mother, Catherine Willis. In 1924, Miss Willis gave it to the receiver of the letter- Jeremy, or Jeany, or Jenny, possibly a family member who was getting married. There were two Major General Swanton at the time, uncle of Miss M.F. Willis. Major General William Oliver Swanton, 1827-1908, Madras Staff Corps., Inspector General of Police, Southern Range, 22nd Oct 1867; created Lieutenant 17th Mar 1859; Captain on 18th Feb 1861 and Major on 20th Dec 1866; Lieutenant Colonel on 20th Dec 1872; Major General Nowell Swanton, 1833-1912, Indian army. More information of the Swanton's family, see: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Swanston