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Vintage Framed Beaded Apron Pocket – Family Heirloom with Handwritten History
A fascinating vintage textile keepsake featuring colorful beadwork displayed against deep burgundy velvet within an elaborate gold-tone frame featuring ornate floral and scrollwork details.
What makes this piece special is the handwritten family history preserved on the reverse.
Dated May 26, 1981, the inscription explains that this is one of a pair of apron pockets taken from an apron belonging to the family\'s grandmother, identified by the writer as their \"Indian grandmother.\"
The writer, Mary Nell, records receiving the pockets from her sister Polly in May 1981. She also documents her wishes for the pieces to remain in the family, passing to her son Steve or, alternatively, her sister Polly\'s daughter, Patti Warner.
Details:
Original vintage framed beadwork
Reportedly one of two pockets from a family heirloom apron
Multicolored floral and ornamental bead design
Deep burgundy velvet background
Elaborate gold-tone decorative frame
Handwritten family history dated May 26, 1981
Approximately 7\" wide x 8\" tall
Estate-style decorative textile and folk art collectible
Historical Note:
The handwritten inscription identifies the original apron owner as the family\'s Native American grandmother. Specific tribal affiliation, maker, original age, and cultural origin of the beadwork have not been independently authenticated.
The May 1981 inscription establishes that the pockets were already preserved within the family by that date; the beadwork itself may be older.
Condition:
Pre-owned vintage condition with visible wear to the frame and velvet, consistent with age. The frame has cracks or separations at decorative corners. The beadwork appears largely intact. Original backing with handwritten inscription remains attached.
Please examine photographs carefully. Sold as pictured.
A unique piece of family-preserved beadwork with documented personal history, appealing to collectors of vintage textiles, folk art, beadwork, and historical keepsakes.
