Red and Black Embroidered Vest

This long wool vest , or “xhybe” was made in the late 19th Century in the Balkans, most likely in Albania. The very fine, plain woven wool ground is decorated with black piping in floral designs. The pistils of the flowers are appliquéd with alternating green and bright red , thus contributing to a jewel like effect. The lining is of printed cotton fabrics, likely imported from Russia.

The garment is very narrow as it is not supposed to completely close at front but rather fastened with a wide sash in a partly open position.

This was typically worn by women with layers of shirts, dresses, skirts, aprons, belts, and shorter vests.