Description

This striking hinggi ikat textile from East Sumba is a superb example of Indonesia’s renowned weaving traditions. Hand-woven and naturally dyed, it features a bold combination of morinda red, deep indigo blue on a white background, creating a vibrant yet balanced palette. The cloth is adorned with zoomorphic and marine motifs — including lions, fish, and lobsters — symbols of strength, fertility, and prosperity in Sumbanese culture. Each figure has been painstakingly resist-dyed using the traditional ikat technique, where threads are bound and dyed before weaving, resulting in patterns with distinctive feathered edges and rhythmic repetition.

Large in scale, this hinggi would traditionally be worn ceremonially as a wrap or displayed during important rituals. Today, it makes a powerful wall hanging, decorative textile, or collector’s piece, carrying both visual impact and cultural significance.

As an authentic, handwoven textile crafted on a traditional back-strap loom, this piece may contain minor imperfections and unique variations. These are not flaws, but rather cherished hallmarks of its genuine, handmade origin. Slight irregularities in the weave and subtle variations in the natural dye colours are a testament to the artisan’s hand and the time-honoured process used to create it. We believe these details add to the unique character and story of each textile, confirming its place as a one-of-a-kind work of art.

Materials:

*  Made from 100% naturally dyed cotton yarn.

Dimensions approximately:

*  Length 118.8 inches (approx 301.7 cm), Width = 44.4 inches (approx. 112.7 cm)

*  This textile is made of two handwoven panels carefully joined together—a traditional method used by Indonesian artisans when creating pieces wider than 90 cm. Woven on a back-strap loom, this technique is not only practical but also a hallmark of authenticity, showcasing the skill and heritage behind genuine handwoven textiles.

Care instructions: 

*  We highly recommend dry-cleaning or spot-cleaning only.

*  Do not bleach or soak.

*  NOT SUITABLE FOR MACHINE WASHING.

Availability

Our textiles are available in limited quantities, and stock can change quickly. To make sure we can provide you with the exact item you want, please contact me to see if this ikat is currently available. I will be happy to check and set it aside for you!