embroidered in satin stitch and couched gold-wrapped threads, with five five-clawed dragons amidst clouds and bats, the central dragon portrayed frontally with a flaming pearl, all enclosed within a couched gold border, further surrounded by a border of scrolling foliage bearing large stylized lotus blossoms interspersed with bats, framed and glazed

There is a stain to border on the left side of the seat cover, and there are minor frays to the edge. Some of the threads within the gold inner trimming have become loose, but otherwise in good condition. The cover has not been inspected outside the frame.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Further examples of throne seat covers decorated with dragons are illustrated in Robert J. Jacobson, Imperial Silks: Ch'ing Dynasty Textiles in the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, vol. II, Minneapolis, 2000, nos. 401 - 405.