Indigo Blueprint Embroidered Apron | Torysky, Slovakia

Description

Origin: Slovakia | Spis region | Torysky village
Era: WWII era (circa 1930-1950)
Condition: very good; small embroidered mend original to apron (see last photo before reference image); replaced waist tie ribbons; light wear; suitable for both wear and display
Measurements (with garments laying flat):
   Embroidered waistband: 4″ x 23″
   Length: 30″ + tuck across middle that can be let out an additional 5″
Additional Notes: The Rusyn villages of Torysky and Nizne Repase tucked away in the mountains of Spis are famous for their incredible embroidered blueprint aprons, characteristically featuring a different printed design on each side. Originally made exclusively of homespun linen, women transitioned to cotton as a lighter substitute in the 20th century. This example, made of beautiful indigo-dyed cotton fabric, features traditional embroidered protective motifs, hearts and solar symbols along the waistband and a beautiful crochet lace seam insert down the middle. The bottom edge is embroidered with nearly two dozen red, green, and yellow hearts making it a beautiful wedding garment. The cotton waist ties are likely newer replacements, which is quite common for these aprons as old ones got worn out from frequent tying. An incredible example of the sophisticated local style. The last photo above shows two women from Torysky wearing these types of aprons.