Vintage Set of 4 Ndebele Mapoto Beaded Aprons from South Africa Canvas Backed

Oh, my goodness! I love these gorgeous Ndebele Mapoto beaded aprons from South Africa. They will make the most awesome wall decor! These are each beaded on canvas and not hide so dates them to later rather than earlier in the 20th century as does their color combinations. But when they are this beautifully done, I’m not sure their age matters. They are a fabulous piece of art no matter the timeframe. The bead colors range from light sky blue to deep cobalt blue with bright grass green, orange, black, white, and tan thrown in. They are breathtakingly intricate and beautiful, and their abstract designs are incredible. We have priced these as a set of four but will consider selling them individually.

In general, the intricately beaded and colorful Mapoto beaded aprons are typically made and worn by women for ceremonial occasions. In some information I read the Mapoto is meant for a newlywed and the colors and patterns denote the joining of families with the two bottom flaps representing the two homes joining while the beaded fringe is the desire and hope for children.

I can imagine these treasures hanging in a single line either horizontally or vertically. Or, maybe rather squared with two above two. How many ways can you imagine them displayed? You need to make them yours!

Apron sizes:
• Apron A (mostly black and cobalt) 18.5 H x 15.25 W x .75 D inches 2 pounds
• Apron B (with orange accent) 20.5 H x 14.5 W x .75 D inches 2 pounds
• Apron C (light blue and black with green) 20 H x 15 W x .75 D inches 2 pounds
• Apron D (medium blue and black with green in tan) 18.5 H x 16 W x .5 D inches 2 pounds

Boxed size:
• Height 8 inches
• Width 20 inches
• Depth 24 inches
• Weight 13 pounds.