The Cuff and Sleeve

The cuff on the robe is interesting because of its shape. It is called a horse shoe cuff and was developed during the Qing Dynasty. It resulted from a custom where it was considered impolite for one to show their hands. The border along the edge of the cuff is a swastika pattern embroidered with gold thread. The black pattern after the border is also satin with various flowers and butterflies embroidered on it. A small version of the large crane roundel is also present. The sleeve has a strip of plain scarlet satin followed by a 2" strip of the black pattern, again, embroidered with the small crane roundels, butterflies and flowers.