Suzhou Embroidery. Gu Wen-Xia Embroidery Studio
147 × 200 cm, 1990s
This embroidered robe is a meticulous reproduction of a Qing dynasty imperial dragon robe, crafted by Suzhou embroidery master Gu Wen-Xia and her studio. Yellow—the exclusive color of the emperor—dominates the garment, signifying imperial authority. A large, fully extended dragon is prominently embroidered at the center, flanked by symmetrically arranged smaller dragons and auspicious clouds. The robe features a total of nine dragons—five visible from both the front and back—reflecting imperial symbolism. The hem is adorned with curved wave patterns, cresting tides, and stylized rocks, symbolizing the emperor’s power as vast and unshakable as the mountains and seas—conveying hopes for national stability, peace, and prosperity. Beyond its extraordinary craftsmanship using Flat Stitch, Loose Trocar, and Nailing Stitch techniques, the piece offers a rare glimpse into the visual language of Qing court dress.