A ‘BUTTERFLIES AND LOTUS’ LADY’S ROBE China, 1900 – 1920. Finely worked in Beijing stitch and satin stitch with numerous fluttering butterflies and lotus sprays picked out in vibrant shades of blue against the blue ground. The collar, and sleeve bands with similar decoration, the side border with multi-colored floral scroll.

Since the word for “butterfly” in Chinese (die) is a homonym for “octogenarian,” the butterfly is a symbol of longevity. It is also usually an auspicious image associated with joy and weddings, and this robe might have been worn for such an occasion.

Condition: Good condition with wear, little soiling and traces of use, few loose threads, minor tears, and repairs.
Provenance: Austrian private collection.

Dimensions: Length ca. 101 cm, Width ca. 157 cm (across sleeves)