A Re-Puporsed Kimono Cloth Apron: Decorative Tie

early to mid twentieth century
28" x 26 1/2", 71 cm x 67 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 what is undoubtedly recycled cotton kimono fabric with a tie that is also recycled: the sashiko stitched cloth that in part composes the tie might be woven--although it gives the impression it is hand stitched.

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.