Linen Dress with Woven Designs | Rivne, Ukraine

Description

Origin: Ukraine | Polissya region | Rivne area
Era: Early 20th century (circa 1910-1930)
Condition: good; large areas of faint stains in bottom half of dress; minor faint stains on sleeves; two darker spots on back below collar; worn areas along collar edge; suitable for both wear and display
Measurements (with garments laying flat):
   Width: 24.5″ side to side fully stretched
   Length: 42″
   Sleeves: 27″ from collar to cuff
Additional Notes: Long sleeve dresses called “sorochky” (plural or “sorochka” singular) are the foundation of most Ukrainian folk costumes. Made of linen, hemp or cotton they were the most important element of traditional Ukrainian dress. As these garments were worn directly against the skin, they were considered to be an extension of the wearer and posses some of their spirit and personality. Open edges such as hemlines and collars were typically embroidered with various symbols and designs for protection so that evil forces could not penetrate the spiritual barrier. This homespun linen dress features woven designs typical of western Polissya region where archaic geometric motifs remained in use noticeably longer than in central Ukraine. The bottom half of the dress would traditionally be covered by a skirt so the staining is not a significant concern when worn or displayed with other elements. Sewn entirely by hand.