Three Imperial Embroidered Roundels, Qing Dynasty. Photo courtesy Michaan
The two dragon roundels worked in satin stitch and couched gold-wrapped thread to depict a five-clawed front-facing dragon; the first of slender sinuous form with finely embroidered scales entwining a ‘wanshou’ medallion at the center, surrounded by green and blue cloud florets above rolling waves; the second shown wide-eyed while in pursuit of flaming pearls amidst cloud meanders and bats; the third smaller roundel of the Yuanshikai period and executed in a blue palette, bearing five of the twelve Imperial symbols including an ax, temple cup, grains of millet, sea grass and a central ‘fu’ emblem, all enclosed by swirling clouds. Diameter of Largest: 11 1/2 inches (29.2 cm). Estimate: $3,000/5,000. Sold $11,210.00
Roundels of this kind appeared on court surcoats as a clear indication of rank and status. The five-clawed dragon denotes imperial ranking, with the clockwise turn of each dragon’s body designating these roundels for placement on the left shoulder.
Similarly, during the Yuanshikai Period (1912-1915), these roundels were worn by officials, with both the number of roundels on the surcoat, and the number of Imperial symbols included, signifying status.
Closely related examples of these three roundels sold at Christie’s New York, The Imperial Wardrobe: Fine Chinese Costume and Textiles from the Linda Wrigglesworth Collection, March 19, 2008, lots 11, 32 and 81, respectively
Fine Asian Works of Art Auction. Sunday June 23, 2013, 10am. http://www.michaans.com