Vintage South African Ndebele Mapoto Beaded Hide Wedding Apron

Description

This is an impressive piece of history. The bead work is amazing and so are the colors. Needs some repairs as you can see in the pictures but over intact. Some of the hide has repairs which you can see from the back. Colors of blue, purple, white, green, black, and turquoise. Feel free to ask questions.
The Mapoto is traditionally worn by a Ndebele woman in south Africa at her wedding. Made in the early to mid 20th century. The side panels symbolise the marriage partners and the tassels, the expectation of the children the woman will bear.
Measures 23” by 18”.
Make an offer!