Man's Dressing Gown c. 1936

Jessie Benge created this drawing of a man's dressing gown, using pencil and watercolor. It is not just a representation of clothing; it reflects the craft of design itself. The floral pattern, rendered in watercolor, is a critical element. These delicate botanical motifs contrast sharply with the garment's intended purpose: a dressing gown, typically associated with masculine leisure. The artist's choice to depict it this way infuses the design with a sense of cultivated elegance, a careful balance between comfort and refinement. The drawing is highly precise, indicative of Benge's understanding of garment construction. This piece isn't simply about aesthetics, but about the labor and skill embedded in design. It asks us to consider the social context of fashion. It also challenges the traditional divide between art and craft, elevating the design process to a form of artistic expression.