Description
Short aprons are important to the history of women's dress in many parts of Africa. Although rarely worn today outside of ceremonial contexts, aprons such as this were considered appropriate coverings well into the mid-20th century. At their most sophisticated such aprons demonstrate a range of abstract compositions and explore variations in geometry, color, and texture. This apron featrues shifting diagonal lines arranged in upper and lower registers that contrast cool and warm colors.
Provenance
Martial Bronsin, Brussels, Belgium, before 2000; sold to Andrés Moraga, Berkeley, Calif., by 2000; sold to the Art Institute, 2000.
Accession Number
155989
Medium
Cotton thread, glass beads, and cowrie shells
Dimensions
30.5 × 54.7 × 1.3 cm (12 × 21 1/2 × 1/2 in.)
Classification
fiber
Credit Line
O. Renard Goltra Endowment