Indonesian Mantle or Shoulder Cloth

Sage and grey stripes, with dark patterned bands running down the length.

Weavers of Timor, Indonesia, made this mantle or shoulder cloth in cotton in the 20th century. Cloths of this type are commonly worn wrapped at the shoulder or waist and used in ceremonial exchange. The ground is a soft olive-green and grey, striped in fine lines of cream and brown. Two bands of dark, interlocked motifs run lengthwise, with a long loose fringe at each end. The surface looks well worn and pleasantly faded.

About seventy-seven by forty-four inches. Calm enough for a bedroom, strong enough for a bold wall.