Kitchen Makatkas

The „homeland” of kitchen makatkas (kitchen tapestry) were the territories of what are now Germany and  the Netherlands, where they were commonly used  at the beginning of 19th century. In other countries, they became popular after  World War I, and remained in use until the 80s.  The trend to use them for interior decoration was connected with the modernization of houses that gradually became larger and more spacious. Makatkas highlighted the cleanliness, order and hominess of the kitchen that is the heart of every house.

Makatkas also served as a schematic lexicon that created values considered most important in the life a woman and her family. The images contained within showed schematically treated models to follow,  complete with moralizing maxims.  The popularity of makatkas, initially embroidered and then printed, was greatly influenced by the fact that they were cheap and easy to make.

The exhibition will feature items from the collection of  Elżbieta  and Piotr Branekov.

Official Opening – 12 August, 18:00 – Gardzienice Gallery, Grodzka 5a.

Exhibition is open until 25 August