Tibetan Aprons

These are examples of classic Tibetan aprons (pangden). Though perhaps the most distinctive part of Tibetan dress examples are not often offered for sale. As daily use items they tended to wear out quickly and so it is uncommon to find examples that are even one generation old.

Formerly each village and family (especially in the countryside) wove its own aprons from local wool. A tight and windproof cloth called sherma is woven in narrow strips, which are then joined together to make the apron. Most Tibetan aprons have three strips, though other multiples are known.

The designs used to be characteristic of different areas, while individual families would weave their own variations on the orders of colors and stripe-widths. Today, few Tibetans weave sherma and most aprons are made from commercial cloth imported from China and India.

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TT49 Tibetan wool apron from Nyalam area, between Lhasa and the Nepal border. Around 30-40 years old. $150
TT52 Tibetan wool apron from Nyalam area, between Lhasa and the Nepal border. Around 30-40 years old. $150
TT57 Tibetan apron from the Tingri area near to the Nepal border. Around 30-40 years old. $150
TT78 Tibetan apron from Nyalam area. Striking design but note the worn and frayed edges. 30-40 years old. $150