An Indigo Dyed Cotton Kasuri Apron: Everyday Wear
19 1/2" x 13 3/4", 49.5 cm x 33.5 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 one haba or one loom width of an indigo dyed cotton kasuri cloth. The apron is narrow, as can be seen in photos. The tie is made from black dyed cotton, a nice contrast to the the deep, rich coloration of the apron itself.
If you ever happen to see historical photos of old Japan, particularly street scenes for scenes depicting everyday life, look closely at the photos and most likely you will see the presence of maekake in these photos.
A charming, old, everyday garment.
