Library

National and International Publications on SEA Textiles

IKAT VAN TANIMBAR – IKAT FROM TANIMBAR. Origin and Meaning of Ikat motifs from a group of Islands in the Southeast Moluccas.

Author: Marianne Van Vuuren, 2001, 198PG. (Dutch & English). Softcover
Publisher: Marianne van Vuuren, Netherlands

This volume offers a comprehensive examination of the ikat textiles of Tanimbar, situated in the eastern reaches of the Indonesian archipelago, within the Moluccas. These textiles, previously undocumented in such detail, are analyzed through their social and cultural significance in Tanimbarese society. The author elucidates the symbolic meanings and historical origins of the motifs, presenting an extensive catalogue of more than 250 distinctive designs, accompanied by photographs and illustrations that enrich the study.

IKAT: Textiles of the Indonesian Archipelago

Author: Peter ten Hoopen, 2018. 600 Pg. (English)
Publisher: Hongkong University Press, Hongkong

The author showcases textiles from his Pusaka Collection on his website, linking them to their social roles in Indonesian traditions. This substantial volume has garnered mixed reviews from Southeast Asian textile experts. While readers can appreciate the author's four-decade passion for Indonesian textiles, he should also recognize the work of colleagues who have explored this topic before.

IKATS FROM TIMOR, and Its Outer Islands

Author: Peter ten Hoopen. 2022 320 pg. (English)
Publisher: Sidestone Press, Leiden, Netherlands

The author presents a study on ikat in Timor from a technological viewpoint, microscopy, and design analysis of asymmetry. The presentation also includes the distribution of shared motifs with other surrounding smaller islands, as well as ikat in its social context. The book was awarded the 2023 ICAS Book Prize Accolades.

IKATS OF SAVU. Women Weaving History in Eastern Indonesia.

Author: Geneviève Duggan, 2001. 167pgs. (English). Softcover Studies in the Material Cultures of Southeast Asia Series no.1
Publisher: White Lotus, Bangkok

This book represents the first volume of Studies in the Material Cultures of Southeast Asia, a series edited by Dr. Michael Howard. The book explores the links between mythology and weaving of the island of Savu and examines how textiles have formed the fabric of Savunese society throughout time. Ikat Savu weavings are exceptional in the sense that they can act as markers of historical events. They have a great significance and can be “read” like a text. They also form a language expressing the socio-political structure of Savunese society.

IN HER HANDS. Craftswomen Changing the World.

Author: Paola Gianturco and Toby Tuttle, 2004, 240pg. (English). Softcover
Publisher: Powerhouse Books, Brooklyn, NY, USA

Across the globe, women in developing economies enhance the well-being of their families by producing and marketing exquisite indigenous crafts. In Her Hands is a visually compelling documentary that profiles ninety women across twelve countries on four continents, illuminating both the diversity of their lived experiences and the striking universality of their aspirations. Confronted by the harsh realities of poverty, limited educational opportunities, and inadequate access to basic healthcare, these female artisans are nonetheless propelled by a profound commitment to their children’s welfare. Their motivations encompass the desire to clothe them appropriately, nourish them adequately, and—above all—secure their education. The pursuit of social connection and communal solidarity often brings craftswomen together in small collectives, which subsequently evolve into micro-enterprises that contribute to economic resiliece in developing nations.

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