Shoulder Cloth (Selandang)

Shoulder cloths were a traditional part of ceremonial clothing in Sumatra, worn draped over one shoulder. This textile is from the Pasemah region which is on the southwest side of the island. The intricate designs on both ends are woven with gold thread, and the fringe is created with pieces of silver. The use of metals in textiles was meant to show the wealth and status of the wearer.

Aside from the metallic threads, this piece is all woven using cotton dyed indigo and red. The center field is solid blue with some areas of fading and repairs. The ends are three stripes of red and blue, decorated with abstract and geometric designs.