The Sacred Buffalo

Created during the weaving process, the tapestry-like supplementary pattern at the base of this woman's sarong is called karimbua or buffalo. Before the introduction of cattle, buffalo were essential to the way of life in Sumba. Sumbanese textiles have always functioned as both an indication of status and a means of ritual exchange. The colors and motifs worn still denote an individual's position in the island's complex social hierarchy. This piece, combining multiple decorative techniques, would mark its wearer as being of high status. Information about the makers will be supplied with each cloth. Plain weave , floating warp patterning, two panels stitched together and sewn as a tube, commercial cotton, natural dyes. Dyed and woven in Sumba, 2023. Size 116 x 68 cm / 45.5 x 27 in