Qing Dynasty Chinese Manchu style summer silk gauze robe decorated in copper colored metallic threads with a brocade pattern featuring 8 visible 5-clawed dragons, plus one hidden dragon on the inside flap, depicted in full-face and profile poses against a blue ground. Each dragon is chasing a flaming pearl (symbolizing the Buddhist notion of enlightenment) and is surrounded by clouds and various auspicious symbols. The dragon's eyes are accented in black and white. An embroidered panel surrounding the neckline is filled with additional dragons running across the top of waves. The bottom of the robe is decorated in the traditional pattern of waves, stylized mountains and diagonal bands of upright water (li shui) permeated with auspicious symbols. The traditional sleeve extension and horsehoof cuff are woven in a contrasting maroon colored ground. The robe features the standard side-fastening overlapping closure with metal buttons. It measures approximately 86" from sleeve tip to sleeve tip and 55 1/2" in length. The robe is in pristine condition. It dates from the late 19th century to circa 1900. Provenance: This robe is from the private collection of a second generation Chinese American and native of Tucson. It was brought from China prior to 1930 by his brother-in-law, who was an importer of fine textiles. It has been extremely well cared for by the family for the past 70-80 years.