Elders Wisdom as Art

Lying midway between Sumba and Timor, Sabu is a small island that is home to a strong culture. Although many islanders have converted to Christianity, the traditional belief system, Jingi Tiu, still prevails, and textiles are an important aspect of ceremonial life.

Known locally as a higi wo hapi, this cloth is worn by a high priest or elder during rituals. The white motif flanking the others is called hapi, and is an essential part of ceremonial textiles such as this.

It would look striking as a bed throw or draped over a table.

Information about the makers will be supplied with each cloth.
Warp ikat, single panel, twisted fringe, commercial cotton, natural dyes. Ikat tied, dyed and woven in Sabu, 2019. Size 198 x 80 cm / 78 x 31.5 in