This refined handwoven IKAT textile from Sumba, Indonesia is a beautiful example of naturalistic Sumbanese weaving — softer in palette and more painterly in character than many of its boldly geometric counterparts. The central band showcases a procession of horses rendered in soft periwinkle blue on a cream ground, each animal depicted beneath a canopy of radiating tree forms — likely stylized versions of the Sumbanese tree of life, a motif representing connection between the earthly and spirit worlds.
The horse holds deep cultural significance in Sumba. Historically prized as a symbol of wealth, nobility, and spiritual power, the horse appears frequently in Sumbanese ceremonial textiles and remains one of the island's most beloved weaving motifs. The naturalistic rendering here — each horse full-bodied and in profile, surrounded by branching trees — gives this piece an unusually lyrical, storybook quality rare among tribal woven textiles. Size: 15"x 62"
Flanking the central band, warm tan and brown stripe bands carry fine rows of cream geometric medallions and cross motifs, grounding the airy blue-and-cream palette with earthy structure. The overall effect is calm, elegant, and timeless.
This piece was personally selected by Judy during her recent buying trip to Indonesia — drawn to its unusually gentle palette and the graceful storytelling of its horse and tree composition.
No two pieces are identical. Natural color variation and slight irregularities in the weave are inherent to handmade textile traditions and are a mark of authentic handcraft.
Suggested uses: apparel yardage, quilting accent panels, wall hangings, home décor, collectors' display, and mixed-media fiber art projects.
Love what you see? If you'd like to join Judy on her next trip to Indonesia, we'd love to hear from you — contact us to learn more.
