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Ikat Textile from Sumba Island Stunning Tribal Motifs, Indonesia

About the Item

This exquisite ikat textile from Sumba Island, Indonesia, is a handwoven treasure that speaks to centuries of tradition, artistry, and cultural depth. Crafted by skilled artisans using age-old techniques passed down through generations, the fabric is dyed and woven entirely by hand, making each piece truly one of a kind. The textile features intricate tribal motifs that reflect the spiritual beliefs and social structures of the island’s indigenous communities. Bold, geometric patterns are interspersed with elaborate embroidery, lending the piece an added dimension of texture and richness. Embroidered accents bring out the fine details in the design, highlighting the painstaking care put into every thread. Striking animal and human figures are woven into the fabric, each symbol telling a story. Horses—often regarded as sacred in Sumbanese culture—stride alongside mythical creatures and ancestral icons, representing strength, freedom, and connection to the spiritual world. Human forms are depicted in ceremonial poses, evoking themes of ritual, power, and continuity. The deep earthy tones, dyed using natural plant-based colors, create a visually powerful contrast against more vibrant reds, indigos, and ochres. This interplay of color and form captures the essence of Sumba’s landscape and the soul of its people. Whether used as a wall hanging decor or cherished collector's piece, this ikat textile embodies the profound cultural narrative and artistic excellence of Sumba Island. Chickens hold rich symbolic meaning in both the traditional ceremonies and everyday life of the people of East Sumba. The chicken motifs found on this textile represents the birth of a spirit, reflecting the deep spiritual connections embedded in Sumbanese cultural expressions. This textile is old and thus has some wear and tear which adds to its character, the various tears in the fabric are highlighted in the images.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 99.22 in (252 cm)Width: 23.23 in (59 cm)Depth: 0.02 in (0.4 mm)
  • Style:
    Other (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Yarn,Hand-Woven
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1950
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor fading.
  • Seller Location:
    Jimbaran, ID
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5881244492942

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Ikat Textile from Sumba Island Stunning Tribal Motifs, Indonesia
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Ikat Textile from Sumba Island Stunning Tribal Motifs, Indonesia
Located in Jimbaran, Bali
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Ikat Textile from Sumba Island Stunning Tribal Motifs, Indonesia
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Ikat Textile from Sumba Island Stunning Tribal Motifs, Indonesia
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