Sarong Item Number: 3511/6 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Maroon sarong with fringe on ends. Top and bottom edges bordered by three patterned bands. Outer and inner bands have a repeating triangle motif, framed with curvilinear designs; centre band has a geometric motif. Bands are trimmed with plain stripes and rows of dots. Two large rectangles in centre of sarong. Repeating pattern of circles, filled with floral and linear motifs, throughout rectangles. Negative space, between circles and rectangle edges, is cross-shaped and filled with identical floral and linear designs. Borders on either end, consisting of two vertical bands. Inner band has a repeating triangle motif; outer band has repeating cross-like motif. All designs done in dark red-brown, dark orange and dark green. Fringe on ends are tied into bundles with plant fibre and pink thread.
Unused and unsewn sarong. Sarongs can be worn in several ways, as a skirt, or a dress over one shoulder, etc. This one is made from 2 mirrored pieces of fabric.
Handwoven ikat textile; fibres dyed using local vegetable dyes. Unsewn; warp threads are still uncut so that they form a continuous loop.
Purchased by the donor in the Kelimutu area, on Flores Island, in September 1989.