Portrait Of A Banyan Man, Attributed To André Bouys (1656-1740)

Oil on canvas, portrait of a man in a "banyan" attributed to André Bouys (1656-1740)

Bust-length portrait of a man, dressed in a "banyan", a home garment fashionable in high society.

The early 16th century in France was marked by a fashion characterized by opulence and refinement, inherited from the reign of Louis XIV. At the time, men's clothing reflected a preoccupation with luxury and sophistication. Men often wore richly embroidered vests, delicate lace shirts and silk accessories.

The banyan, inspired by Oriental robes, was worn for its comfort and casual elegance.

The subject's richly decorated orange silk scarf and silver-embroidered vest exemplify this fashion. This style reflects the influence of cultural and commercial exchanges with the East, as well as the importance placed on appearance and social status in society at the time.

André Bouys, a 16th-century French painter and engraver, is renowned for his detailed, expressive portraits. He was influenced by Hyacinthe Rigaud, one of the most famous portraitists of the time.

Inscription on the back, giving the date of the painting (1717) and the age of 30

Antique molded wood frame, carved with flowers and engraved with lambrequins, 18th century period

Dimensions: 80 cm. x 63.2 cm