basic modesty knot

The basic modesty knot is a way of tying the selvage end of an avout’s bolt around the waist and between the thighs to keep the garment in place and preserve modesty. It is described in casual, practical use within a math, and is part of the everyday clothing practices of the avout.

First noted use

The knot is specifically noted when Lio employs it while working in the Cloister garden. He wraps the selvage end of his bolt in the basic modesty knot, then rolls the remainder of the bolt into a tight cylinder, ties the roll at each end with his chord, and slings it diagonally across his back like a bedroll. This overall wrap was Lio’s own invention and, as remarked in-text, had not been taken up by others. The arrangement was described as comfortable on a warm day, if a bit odd-looking. The scene occurs in the Cloister of a math and is observed during the daily routine.

Notes

• The name suggests a simple, foundational knot used for coverage rather than ornament.
• Only the knot’s use and purpose are described; specific steps for tying it have not been provided in-text.
• The term appears in the context of clothing worn by the avout, and its described use is associated with Lio.