Apron c. mid 20th century

This apron was made by Dong craftspeople, but the when and where are a mystery to us. I imagine it coming into being stitch by stitch, each bead and tassel placed with intention, a process of slow accretion. It is like drawing, only here the line is material. Think of the maker, their hands moving with a practiced rhythm to create these elaborate forms. Is this functional, decorative, or both? Perhaps this apron is worn during ceremonies. I'm struck by the patterns and the repetitions, which are almost like mantras. It reminds me of the visionary work of outsider artists, like textile artist Judith Scott, who wrap, bind, and conceal common objects to make something unique. I imagine this piece in dialogue with other artists across time. Each creating their own visual language, bound by the desire to make something meaningful.