Calligraphic ikat cloth

The main field of this lime green 'kain limar' contains the repetition of the phrase, "There is no God but God", the Muslim profession to faith. This textile was probably used as a shroud to cover the body when the deceased is brought to the mosque or to the cemetery for burial. Covering the body with calligraphic ‘limar’ affirms the deceased religious affiliation. It could also be used as shawls for important ceremonial occasions.The ‘limar’ or ikat tradition is a lesser known tradition in Malaysia when compared to songket (supplementary weft textile). They were commissioned by the wealthy and those with calligraphic motifs are difficult to make and therefore quite rare.

See related items

Calligraphic batik head cloth

Calligraphic batik cloth

Calligraphic batik cloth

Double Ikat shawl or shouldercloth