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A banyan was an informal housecoat, worn by gentlemen when at leisure in the privacy of their own homes. To own such a garment was a declaration of one’s wealth and social status. They were often constructed using expensive materials and spoke to a lifestyle free of physical toil.
This example is made of a fine silk tartan and belonged to the Hays of Yester, East Lothian. The back of the garment was altered in the 19th century to resemble the tails of a formal frock coat, probably for use at a fancy dress ball or home theatrical.
Sleeve and cuff detail of silk tartan banyan, c.1760 (K.2002.1033)
Silk tartan banyan, c.1760 (K.2002.1033)
Silk tartan banyan, c.1760 (K.2002.1033)
Silk tartan banyan, c.1760 (K.2002.1033)
Silk tartan banyan, c.1760 (K.2002.1033)
Altered back of silk tartan banyan, c.1760. Originally loose and flowing, the fabric has been reshaped into rigid tails (K.2002.1033)
