A Piece Constructed Reversible Apron: Hand Made

mid twentieth century
24" x 25 1/2", 61 cm x 65 cm

Aprons, or maekake, were worn by everyone in old Japan, especially by women--and they were a part of the every day work outfit.

This mid twentieth century maekake is a real eye dazzler. On the side shown on the lead photos we can see that it is hand sewn from two different types of cotton fabrics in contrasting colors, one striped and one plaid. They plaid and striped cloth are arranged in symmetrical blocks for visual effect.

The reverse side is stitched from a dark, striped cotton. The entire apron is hand stitched with the exception of the (slightly discolored) white cotton tie which is machine stitched to the body of the apron.

The apron is slightly heavy in weight owing to its layered construction and it is still very usable.

A real delight and a beautiful vestige from the past.