During the mid-19th century Japan was renowned for high quality silk production. This
exceptionally maintained mid-19th century Japanese silk embroidery is testament to
Japan’s expertise at this time. Most likely commissioned by the Chinese to be displayed
in a major state room, it was a potent symbol of authority and power due to its non-native
production and purchase, subject matter, and brilliant gold tones. Although the aesthetic
owes much to Chinese Imperial design, this dragon only has three claws rather than the
four or five typical to Chinese designs. These details illustrate the Japanese, rather than
Chinese, production of the product.