Textile thumbnail 1
Not currently on display at the V&A

Textile

1855 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

Detail of an Ikat textile.


Object details

Categories
Object type
Materials and techniques
Silk warp ikat
Brief description
Ikat textile, Trichinopoly, 1855.
Physical description
Detail of an Ikat textile.
Dimensions
  • Length: 254cm (maximum)
  • Width: 85cm (maximum)
Object history
Ikat is a type of weaving where the threads are tie-dyed before weaving to create designs on the finished fabric. The dyeing process begins with binding the resist areas with impermeable yarn or rubber bands. The precision of the wrapping determines the clarity of the design. After wrapping, the threads are dyed, but the areas under the ties retain their original colour. Numerous colours can be added after additional wrappings. When the dyeing process is complete, the warp threads are meticulously arranged on the loom to prepare the design. The natural movement during weaving gives ikat designstheir characteristic feathered edge. Techniques with matching patterns on warp and weft are called double ikat.
Bibliographic reference
Indian ikat textiles / Rosemary Crill. London: V&A Publications, 1998 Number: 1851772421 p.79, pl. 62
Collection
Accession number
7444(IS)

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Record createdOctober 18, 2002
Record URL
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