The Men’s Hinggi Ikat has a repeating geometric patola ratu motif, based on eight-rayed flower pattern from the Indian silk patola cloths traded in the 16th and 17th centuries by the Dutch to Sumbanese kings. Another motif on this ikat is the feline mahan, representing a lion or tiger, and symbolic of power and courage. These patterns are traditionally associated with Sumbanese royalty and continue to be used in ceremonial textiles for funerals, weddings, and in dowries. These textiles confer magical qualities to those who wear or display them and represent personal wealth.
The Men’s Hinggi warp ikat is hand dyed and woven on Sumba Island, Indonesia. This ikat is wonderful exhibited as a wall hanging.
