The dressing gown is a European creation of exotic inspiration: a mix between the Japanese kimono and the Turkish caftan. It appeared on the market at the beginning of the 17th century, first in the Netherlands, then spread rapidly in Europe, especially in England and France. Some dressing gowns were made of painted cotton canvas called "Indian", in reference to these fabrics produced in India and imported by the East India Company (founded in 1664). Their success is very rapid and spread throughout Europe: these clothes are very comfortable and practical, especially if we compare them to the “French” dress which is much more restrictive. In addition, dressing gowns are rare, exotic and expensive, factors that explain their rapid success. Anonymous
French school
Period: late 17th century.
Dim.:+/-74x62.5cm.