Ngada Lawo Butu Beaded Sarong

Indigo, and rows of tiny beaded animals trotting down the cloth.

Ngada weavers of Flores, Indonesia, made this lawo butu, or beaded sarong, in cotton in the 20th century. Ngada textiles are commonly woven in dark indigo and decorated with beadwork or added patterning, and they are worn on ceremonial occasions. The deep ground is lined with horizontal bands of tiny motifs: rows of horse-like animals, zigzags, diamonds and stars in pale and warm colors. A central section holds the busiest groups, with a pair of larger figures.

About 71 by 29 inches. Hang it tall and the herd keeps moving.