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Banyan

MediumSilk, linen, silver, wood

DimensionsOverall center front length: 51 inches Overall center back length 55 inches Chest: 55 inches Waist: 58 inches

Credit LineGift of The Valentine Museum, Richmond, VA

Object number2023-37

DescriptionBrocaded silk and silver banyan for man woven with flowers, butterflies, Chinese styled boats, leaves, and urns. The banyan is single breasted and closes down the center front with eight self-covered buttons. The neck is finished with a short standing collar with one button hole. Each of the sleeves are lined in a fine white silk. The front and lower skirts of the banyan are lined in a fine green silk. The center back is lined in linen. A leather hanging loop is at the center back of the neck. Each side seam has a pocket that both allows the wearer to enter through the banyan to his under clothing and also has a secondary pocket bag that is placed to the rear of the garment.
Label TextBanyans were informal fitted robes that men wore often in their leisure but become a substitute garment for a coat in the hot climate throughout the American south. While often made from printed cottons and beautifully brocaded silks, men did not find those patterns feminine when cut into this type of garment.
InscribedWritten in ink on the interior center back "No. 7"
ProvenanceThe gown is believed to have been purchased by Mr. Tom Moore (possibly the Irish poet Thomas Moore 1779-1852). Notes from the donor explain that "Mr. Moore lived in New York City at the same time as Washington Irving who was his friend. Known for his excellent eye for paintings of value Mr. Moore bought quite a few for himself and advised many others on the purchases." The donor claimed Tom Moore as his great great grand uncle, but research has not found evidence yet.