A Hand Plied Hemp or Ramie Apron: From Sado Island

early twentieth century
26 1/2" x 39 1/2", 67.3 cm x 100.25 cm

This handsome and simply presented indigo dyed hemp or ramie apron is from the collection of a prominent researcher of Japanese folk textiles. His notes indicate that this garment was made on Sado Island, a place known for its high quality folk textiles, especially its sakiori or rag weave. The researcher was given this piece on Sado Island presumably by a family member of the person who made it.

The apron is made of three short panels of hand plied indigo dyed hemp or ramie with a cotton band or tie at the top. The apron was seemingly never worn.

The woven bast fiber is slightly coarse to the touch and is deep in color and rich in tone. There are two, white cotton reinforcements stitched between the three panels.

A subtle yet richly colored old apron this is interesting for its provenance and for knowing this is from a distinct place of origin.

Recommended.