Chinese Blue Silk Dragon Robe, late 19th to early 20th century, embroidered in metallic and colored threads with five-clawed dragons amid cloud scrolls, shou symbols, and rolling waves. Accented with gilt button closures and dragon-motif borders at chest opening and wrists. Mounted to a purple fabric background, under glass, in a shadowbox ebonized frame with gilt edging. Robe: 54 in. length. Frame: 64 in. H x 44 in. W. 

Overall very good condition with minimal fading. Some minor fraying at silk collar area. Small area of loose threads at chest area. Back of robe not examined. 

Acquired by Ada Vance and Max Vance, export manager of the Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company, on a business trip to Japan and China in 1924, and by descent in their family. Copies of several of Mr. and Mrs. Vance's journal-like letters, describing their journey in detail, are available to the winning bidder. (Note: The letters describe numerous shopping excursions in both China and Japan, but do not mention this piece in particular.)