Antique Red Wool & Gold Trim Balkan Macedonian Long Traditional Folk Vest

Original traditional Balkan long vest, bought in Macedonia in the 1970s; could date much earlier. I don’t know the specific region or village from which this piece originates. Red wool. Elaborate gold metallic edging. Front is open Back is shaped at waist, then gracefully flared from waist down Fully lined in floral cotton Label: None, handmade Place of Manufacture: Macedonia Fabric: Wool Lining: Yes Colors: Red Closure: None Pockets: None Measurements, laid flat (in inches) Across shoulders 9 Across underarms 14 Total length at front 43 Marked Size: None, handmade. See measurements. Very small across shoulders (which are cut in so don’t fall precisely on shoulders as in a modern fit)—I am a medium and can get this on, but it’s not comfortable or easy to get off. So I’m estimating extra small Condition: In good wearable, but not perfect condition, as befits its age. Occasional discolored or lightly worn areas overall, especially around hem—samples shown. No holes, no tears to wool. Small tear to lining at one underarm—underarms were reinforced with plain gray fabric, hand stitched. Some wear to edging round outside of armholes.