Apron
ClassificationsClothing and Adornments-aprons
Culture
Dong
Datemid to late 20th Century
Made AtGuizhou Province, China, Asia
Made AtHunan Province, China, Asia
MediumShiny cloth, cotton, silk, possibly velvet, sequin and possibly metallic plastic thread
Dimensions30 × 25 in. (76.2 × 63.5 cm)
Credit LineGift of Anne and Long Shung Shih
Object number2016.13.44
DescriptionThe textiles of the Miao in Southwest China are appreciated for their exuberant, decorative qualities. Girls learn how to weave and decorate textiles at a young age, as it is considered an essential skill. The quality and skill of one’s weaving and decoration is often a consideration for choosing a potential wife. The shiny cloth used in this apron is a common feature of Miao textile work. It is created through a process known as calendering. As the Miao people inhabit different areas and countries, the specific materials used in calendering vary depending on the organic materials available in a specific location. The significant amount of time needed to create this shiny cloth is consistent across methods and is a testament to the Miao’s attention to detail and idea of beauty. Along with the shiny cloth, the metal weaving technique was also used to create this apron.On View
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