Product Description

Antique Sumatran Textile: Kain Tapis

Material: Cotton
Style: Lampung, South Sumatra, Indonesia
Size: Length 140 cm, Width 101.5 cm
Order Number: T96

South Sumatra has one of the most splendid and diverse textile traditions in Indonesia. The Paminggir people, who date back to the early 15th century,  were strictly hierarchical. Status was displayed by ownership and use of certain textiles. They practised ancestor worship.

Tapis are long, tubular skirts worn by Paminggir women on special occasions, especially weddings. They show the wearer’s status and wealth.

The tapis is a large rectangle made of two or more panels sewn together into a tube and elaborately embroidered. There are horizontal stripes.The embroidery of its major design features distinguishes it from women’s sarongs elsewhere in Indonesia. Sequins, mica or small mirrors and metallic threads further decorate the piece.

According to Claire and Steven Wilbur in Southeast Asian Textiles (page 157) they are no longer produced, and are rare and valuable.

Southeast Asian Textiles, Claire & Steve Wilbur, Shiffer Publishing, 2003.

19th – early 20th century.

Map of Sumatra.

Please ask for the price (or make an offer).