Title
Sacred cloth
Year/Period
Late 19th-early 20th century
Region
Toraja, Sulawesi
Dimension
Object size: 584.4 x 21.3 cm
Accession No.
1997-04276
Collection of
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Andy Ng
The rectangular panels of this sacred cloth, known as ‘sarita’ depict geometric patterns, as well as scenes showing men leading buffalo. Such sacred cloths were used during funerals of high-ranking people to cover the chest of the dead, and as a head wrapper by the ceremonial leader. This textile is made by a resist process similar to batik. Toraja textiles are rich in variety and reflect knowledge of different techniques such as ikat weaving, surface patterning and the use of imported beads.
