Textiles of Indonesia

The Thomas Murray collection of Indonesian textiles is one of the most important in the world, documenting the traditions of pre-Islamic Indonesian cultures and the influences of regional trade. This volume focuses on some of the finest cloths from the Batak, Lampung, Dayak, Toraja, Sumba, Timor, and other islands, with original texts by international experts offering historical context and insights into dating and provenance.

Format: Hardback
Length: 526 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2021
Publisher: Prestel

The Thomas Murray collection of Indonesian textiles is a remarkable treasure, amassed over four decades, and stands as one of the most significant collections worldwide. This extensive collection comprises a diverse range of objects, including ritual clothing and ceremonial cloths, which provide invaluable insights into the traditions of pre-Islamic Indonesian cultures. These textiles also reflect the profound influences of regional trade with China, India, the Arab world, and Europe. Similar to its predecessor, Textiles of Japan (Prestel, 2018), this book showcases some of the finest textiles originating from the Indonesian archipelago. Geographically organized, it focuses on textiles from various regions, including the Batak and Lampung region of Sumatra, the Dayak of Borneo, and the Toraja of Sulawesi. Additionally, it features rare textiles from Sumba, Timor, and other islands.

Through meticulous photographs and original texts by international experts, readers delve into the intricate world of dyeing, weaving, and beading techniques that have been practiced for centuries. These texts offer historical context, unravel the mysteries behind ancient iconography, and provide fresh perspectives on dating and provenance. At once opulent and scholarly, this book arrives at a time when there is a growing interest in Southeast Asian culture. It bears the imprimatur of one of the art world's leading collectors, Thomas Murray.

The contributors to this book are a diverse group of experts, including Lorraine Aragon, Joanna Barrkman, Chris Buckley, Kristal Hale, Valerie Hector, Janet Alison Hoskins, Itie van Hout, Eric Kjellgren, Fiona Kerlogue, Brigitte Khan Majlis, Robyn Maxwell, Thomas Murray, and Sandra Sardjono. Their contributions enrich the understanding and appreciation of Indonesian textiles, making this collection a valuable resource for scholars, collectors, and enthusiasts alike.

Weight: 4190g
Dimension: 276 x 353 x 58 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783791387659