Tents were extremely popular in earlier times as buildings were not constructed yet. A simple tent could be made of leaves and sticks, to animal skins, then eventually turning into full on pavilions constructed for Mughal Kings (see here the only surviving tent ensemble). These tents turned into very lavish complexes with rooms and thousands of tents.
While this isn’t a lesson on the entire history of tents, let’s summarize. Eventually the West was inspired by the East, and the Europeans began constructing these tents not only out of fabric but also out of metal to put into their gardens.
The Guards’ tent at Drottningholm Palace in palace is perfect replica. The tent is made of metal and made to look like blue and white striped fabric complete with tassels. It was built in 1781.
Below is an artist watercolor of the tent that was once in Parc Monceau, Paris.
Naturally King Louis of France had to have one. Below, from Porte Saint Antoine, Versailles.
The next three tent pavilions are of modern day construction by architects Curtis and Windham. I must say, I love them all!
Below, captured by Paul Hester for Veranda Magazine.
A less permanent tent option as featured in House & Garden. It is by Raj Tent Club Shop and is a collab with V&A museum. The pictures below are all from Raj Tent Club Shop (not sponsored).
sources:
