During 1913, Eric Hyde Villiers (1881-1964), grandson of George Villiers, 4th Earl of Clarendon (1800- 1870) purchased the robe in China during a visit as a partner of Martell Cognac. It is thought that Eric purchased the robe as a gift for his father, Sir Francis Hyde Villiers (1852-1925). Once gifted, the robe remained packed away within the family home in England for over a century, and only more recently discovered having been pushed to the back of a drawer.

Historically, within Chinese culture, the Emperor of China was considered the ‘Son of Heaven’, and during two specific days of the year he would have been celebrated. Sat atop the Imperial sedan chair he would have led a procession of elephants, chariots, musicians, noblemen and court officials, who made their way to the Temple of Heaven. Once at the temple, he would offer sacrifices and worship the God of Heaven and the Gods of the sun, moon, stars, cloud, rain, wind and thunder - these Gods are depicted on the robe with specific symbols and motifs embroidered throughout. The Emperor’s prayers would be of thanks for the harvest received in the current year and of hope for the bounty of the following year.

The opulent robe showcases a rich blue backdrop adorned with the twelve symbols of Imperial authority, meticulously arranged in three sets of four around the neckline. These symbols include the sun, the moon, constellations, and a rock. Crafted using the Kesi technique, the robe is woven with three-color gold threads to achieve a delicate yet clear pattern, known for its clarity and lightweight quality.

Nine Imperial five-clawed dragons are intricately depicted clasping flaming pearls of wisdom, symbolising the virtuous ruler who governs wisely for the welfare of the subjects. The design incorporates aquatic grass grains, millet, and flames resting on the frothy waves, referred to as Lishui ruyi. Additionally, a golden pheasant gracefully wraps around the main body of the robe. The ensemble is completed with a pair of temple cups and sleeve extensions featuring deep blue and gold stripes.

Preserved in a cardboard box away from light, the robe has retained its original colours and is exceptionally well-preserved. Unlike some Western practices, it has not been altered for fancy dress, maintaining its authenticity.

Commenting on this extraordinary find, Mark Newstead, Specialist Consultant for Asian Ceramics and Works of Art at Dreweatts, said: “We are delighted to be offering for sale this important Emperor’s Imperial twelve symbol dragon robe, which has been left largely untouched for over 100 years, retaining its original colour and condition. It had been forgotten about by the family and was recently found in a tailor’s box at the back of a drawer. It is particularly auspicious to be selling it in the lunar year of the dragon.”

Auction Details

Tuesday 21 & Wednesday 22 May, 10.30am BST
Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE

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