A Diamond Shaped Padded Apron: Indigo Dyed Cotton

ca. late nineteenth, early twentieth century
apron body as shown: 16 1/4" x 17", 41 cm x 43 cm

This odd little padded, indigo dyed cotton diamond-shaped garment is a kind of apron or chest protector--and it is very economically designed.

The square of cloth turned on its edge as it is increases the area of a human body that it can cover.   Why it is padded is a mystery, but were we to delve into the origins of this particular garment we would no doubt find out and would be surprised.

The facing cloth is a deeply dyed indigo cotton.  The back of the muneate or chest protector is  faded and mottled indigo dyed cotton.  Cotton wadding pads this piece.

The ties which encircle the torso are hand stitched from repurposed indigo dyed cotton pieces while the cording which goes around the neck is a combination of string and cotton.

A really charming and unusual garment from old Japan, this one would be fun to wear or to display.

Lovely.