Choga
The loose gowns exported to the West by the British East India Company were often in a style known as the chogha. A sumptuous, long-sleeved, open-fronted gown, the chogha was traditionally an outer garment worn by princes and noblemen at court. Indeed, its function as a garment of rank, status, or wealth is clear from the use of extravagant materials. The chogha became the model for the eighteenth century dressing gown, known as the "India" gown or the banyan, a term derived from banian, a Hindu trader hailing from the province of Gujerat. The British East India Company often relied on banians to act as agents in business affairs.
Artwork Details
- Title: Choga
- Date: mid-19th century
- Geography: Made in India, Kashmir
- Medium: Wool, metal wrapped thread, silk; brocaded
- Dimensions: Length at CB: 53 in. (134.6 cm)
- Classification: Main dress-Menswear
- Credit Line: Gift of Ethel Frankau, 1950
- Object Number: C.I.50.16.1
- Curatorial Department: Islamic Art
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