Le Voyage du Cachemire, exhibition’s catalogue

This catalogue traces the fascinating history of the paisley pattern, also known as « boteh », from the mountains of India to the wardrobes of Provence. Through more than a hundred pieces, drawn primarily from the Fragonard collections – portraits, costumes and rare shawls – it explores the origins of this pattern, inspired by the extraordinary attire of the sultans, its journey across continents and its adoption by Western fashion in the 19th century, at a time when it was in search of faraway lands. An invitation to discover the many facets of this timeless pattern, which has travelled through the centuries and continues to inspire dreams.