Banyan

Unknown

1735–40 · silk · Costume Institute

In contrast to the narrow back, tight sleeves, and fitted torso of male dress in the eighteenth century, the banyan provided an ease of cut that popularized its use as undress. Its simple "T" shape reflects its source in untailored regional traditions.

Artist

Unknown

Date

1735–40

Medium

silk

Culture

British

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Purchase, Irene Lewisohn Bequest, 1981