Earlier 20c Ivory Silk Chinese robe with colourful embroidery, lined in a fine tissue silk. I think these have been made for so long it is hard to date precisely but I’m pretty sure this is an older piece. It was sold to me as 1900s but I think it could potentially be a little later, although not post-war.

I think it’s most likely a tourist piece. Traditional shape with frog fastening to front, and side slits. Piped edging along centre front and neck edge, with small stand collar. The blue piping is echoed in the border at the sleeve cuff.

Measures:

Bust laid  flat approx 42” (when doubled)

Arms outstretched cuff edge to edge is 48”

Shoulder to hem 39”

Condition:  

It has been carefully stored for decades and I don’t think it was ever worn. As such it is in very good condition, all the colours remain bright and overall the silk is strong and undamaged.

Full disclaimer; when steamed there is a slight smell of camphor (I’d guess it’s been in a trunk) but it’s not overwhelming, and was not noticeable before I gently steamed. I haven’t aired it, or cleaned. 

Faint scattered iron-mould marks to shoulder, and a tiny section of blue trim missing to the edge as shown - but really nothing that detracts. Please see photos.

Considering the fabrics used and the colours of them, it really is a good example!