Textiles have long been integral to the social life and cosmology of the people of East Sumba, Indonesia. In recent decades, Sumbanese have entered a larger world economy as their textiles have joined the commodity flow of an international “ethnic arts” market stimulated by Indonesia’s tourist trade. Through the individual stories of those involved in the contemporary production and trade of local cloth—including animists, Christians, and Moslems; Sumbanese, Indonesian Chinese, and Westerners; inventive geniuses, master artisans, and exploited weavers; rogues, entrepeneurs, nobles, and servants—a vivid account emerges of the inner workings of a so-called “traditional” society and its arts responding inventively to decades of international collecting.

Intriguing aspects of the history, beliefs, customs, and material culture of the Indonesian people are revealed in this examination of the vast archipelago's textile arts. Relying on evidence from archaeological excavations and historic records, as well as from contemporary investigations, the authors thematically outline the centuries-long interrelationship between symbolism, styles, manufacturing techniques, and materials inherent in traditional Indonesian fabrics. Fabric Traditions of Indonesia is beautifully and profusely illustrated, with 25 color and 47 black and white plates, and also includes a map and glossary.