A EMBROIDERED SILK XIAPE OR COURT WAISTCOAT CHINA, QING DYNASTY, 19TH CENTURY Made of dark night blue silk. The front and the back bears a rank badge (buzi), possibly for Civil Rank #5, that of a SIlver Pheasant. The front part is embroidered with two confronted flying five-claw dragons amidst clouds and above lishui waves with a sacred peak or mountain as well as with numerous flying pheasants and bats and gourd wines. The back part is embroidered with one single archaistic and frontal five-claw dragon flying amidst clouds and above lishui waves and a sacred peak as well as with numerous auspicious symbols. H: 102 cm - width: 66 cm Note: Compare with a related xiape or court waistcoat sold at CHRISTIE’S South Kensington, London, UK, 2012-05-12, lot 1056, for GBP 6,250. 刺绣宫廷袍 中国，清代，19世纪 NOTE: CONDITION REPORTS AND MEASUREMENTS It is up to the bidder to satisfy themselves prior to buying as to the condition of a lot. In relation to Condition Reports, whilst we make certain observations on the lot, which are intended to be as helpful as possible, references in the condition report to damage or restoration are for guidance. The absence of such a reference does not imply that an item is free from defects or restoration, nor does a reference to particular defects imply the absence of any others. The condition report is an expression of opinion only and must not be treated as a statement of fact. Measurements and weight are approximate and the potential bidder may re-ask it to be checked when asking for a condition report.