Red beaded mat

Title
Red beaded mat
Year/Period
Early or mid-20th century
Region
Possibly Indonesia
Object Type
Dimension
Object size: 56.6 x 51.8 cm
Accession No.
2014-00955
Collection of

This large red beaded mat is highly unusual in design. At the centre of the square mat is a cluster of long tube glass beads, in concentric circles. Surrounding the central design are glass beads arranged in clusters of flowers and leaves on red velvet. The border of the mat is also decorated with flowers and leaves. The beaded mat is sewn onto a backing of woven rattan. The function and use of this beaded mat is uncertain, though it is speculated that it could have been used as a chair cover for a wedding. A loop attached to one of the mat might indicate that it was secured to another piece of textile, though it is now detached.