This roundel had probably been previously embroidered onto a surcoat, such those in navy blue worn by the imperial court during important rituals or ceremonies during the Qing dynasty (1644-1911).
According to the <i>Huangchao Liqi Tushi</i> (Illustrations of Imperial Ritual Paraphernalia), only the Emperor and his consorts (including the Empress), and the Crown Prince, would have worn roundels bearing front-facing dragons. Although it is certain that this roundel would not have adorned the emperor's surcoat (the <i>gunfu</i>), as it is missing the requisite <i>shou</i> character, and solar and lunar symbols, it is not easy to say if this roundel came from the robe of the Crown Prince or the Consorts.