Indonesian Sekomandi or Ceremonial Hanging

Deep indigo cloth walking with tiny figures and tendrils in white.

This sekomandi or ceremonial hanging is from Sumba, Indonesia, and dates to the 20th century. It is cotton. Hanging cloths in Indonesian island communities are generally associated with ceremonies and gatherings, and their designs often carry meaning within local tradition. Dark purple-black textile with pale grey-white patterns of small human-like figures between swirling, hooked bands. Narrow borders in zigzag motifs frame the sides. The ends carry a short fringe, and the weave is matte. It is 58 inches wide and 64 long.

A crowd in white thread, entirely well behaved.