31e Cahier, 24e Suite, GG.185
Gallerie des modes et costumes français. 31e Cahier de Costumes Français. 24e Suite d'Habillemens à la mode, en 1780. GG.185
ca. 1780
Designed by Pierre-Thomas Le Clerc (French, Paris 1740–1796); engraved by Charles Emmanuel (Jean Baptiste) Patas (French, Paris 1744–1802)
Hand-colored engraving
Approx. 11 1/2 × 17 in. (29.2 × 43.2 cm)
Frick Art Research Library; Gift of Melinda Martin Sullivan, 2016
Image Frick Digital Studio
Hot Chocolate at Home
The robe de chambre (dressing gown) likely originated in Asia, as suggested by its kimono-like silhouette, funnel-shaped sleeves, and the use of decorative fabrics with floral motifs associated with India or China. Casually gathering his robe by the waist, the man is shown enjoying hot chocolate, a delicacy in eighteenth-century France.
Inscription
English: "Robe de chambre with pagoda sleeves, made of painted toile, lined with taffeta. Wide shirt collar, folded over the cravat."
French: "Robe de Chambre à manche en Pagode, de Toille peinte, doublé de Taffetas. Colle de la Chemise large, rabatu par dessus la Cravate."