Silk ikats from Central Asia
from the collection of the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia
Silk ikats from the collection of the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia on display
Ikat is both a style of weaving that uses a resist-dye process and a cloth made using this technique.
Central Asian ikats were almost unknown to the rest of the world until as recently as 20 years ago. This exhibition showcases the remarkable artistic achievement and technical virtuosity of the silk designers, dyers and weavers of the region. It presents 50 colourful robes, textiles and wall coverings, along with jewellery, mainly from Uzbekistan in the 19th century.
Both inside and outside the borders of Central Asia, ikat textiles had political and social value, used as payment for services rendered, as dowry and bride price, in diplomatic exchanges and as gifts to monarchs. Great pride was taken in the aesthetic quality and bold originality of the designs of these ikat fabrics that came to symbolise the exoticism of the Islamic world.
2 Jul – 6 Oct 2009
$8.00 adult
$5.00 concession
$5.00 member
$20.00 family (2 adults + up to 3 children)
Location:
South Building, ground level, Asian Lantern galleries