Images(2)

TC2001-662: shown: 1941-208,1-2 with 1952-53,1954-1010 with 1991-498 and 1993-66 with 1999-216 ...

Banyan

Date1765-1775 from earlier silk

OriginEngland

MediumBrocaded silk, linen/cotton

DimensionsOL: 55"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1941-208,1

DescriptionMan's dressing gown, sometimes called a "nightgown" or "banyan," constructed of cream silk brocaded with silk in large-scale meandering floral design with self color sub-pattern of meandering vines in weft floats. The garment has a narrow one-inch standing collar and slightly curved front openings without original fasteners (modern hooks added later). Sleeves are cut to curve over the elbows, ending in four-inch turn-back cuffs. The skirt is cut in one piece with the top and flares from waist to hem. The back is seamed down the center, with a below-the-waist inverted pleat. Side seams are set slightly back, into which nine- inch pocket slits are incorporated. Gown is fully lined with plain-woven cotton-and-linen.

Construction History:

1. 1765-1775: Initial Construction
2. June 2, 1954: Repairs by Ernest LoNano for Margaret Hunter Shop

Label TextThis gown and its matching sleeveless waistcoat were made from women's dress silk of about 1760. Patching and old fold lines suggest that the original woman's garment was a sack-back style with pleats falling from the shoulders.