A Indigo Dyed Hemp or Ramie Apron: Beautiful Old Cloth

early twentieth century
28" x 18 1/2", 71 cm x 47 cm

Aprons were worn all the time in old Japan by all classes of people, especially working people. 

Women at home wore them to do housekeeping, farmers and tradesmen wore them, shopkeepers wore them--in the past, aprons or maekake were part of one's daily clothing, and, still, today, many people today in Japan wear aprons on a daily basis.

This hand stitched maekake is fashioned from a handsome, fairly heavy weight indigo dyed hemp or ramie which was woven in a subtle checked or plaid pattern. The tie is white cotton, quite well-worn.

If you ever happen to see historical photos of old Japan, particularly street scenes or scenes depicting everyday life,  look closely at the photos and most likely you will see the presence of maekake in these photos.