Portrait of a man in a “banyan” surrounded by André Bouys (1656-1740)

The banyan, inspired by oriental dressing gowns, was worn for its comfort and casual elegance.

The subject’s richly decorated orange silk scarf and silver-embroidered vest illustrate this fashion well. This style reflects the influence of cultural and commercial exchanges with the Orient, as well as the importance given to appearance and social status in the society of the time.

Painted canvas, 18th century

Painted canvas depicting a decor of castle and garden with ponds, birds, ibis, pelicans, all framed by a frieze of interlacing.

Provence, France

XVIII century