The maekake is a traditional Japanese waist apron with a history rooted in both functionality and commerce branded with Cmartys Jerk Smoke Logo.
The forerunner of the maekake was the homaekake, or "sailcloth apron".
It originated during the Muromachi period (1336–1573), when fishermen fashioned sturdy work aprons from old sailcloth. 
The maekake became a fixture in Japanese culture as the uniform for tradespeople and merchants.
Sake and soy sauce brewers, rice dealers, and other shop staff wore aprons made of thick cotton canvas.
The aprons were often dyed with traditional indigo blue and printed with the company's logo, turning the workwear into a form of branding and advertising.