Shoulder Cloth

This handwoven textile combines two weaving techniques. Weft ikat weaving is used to create an abstract pattern of birds and flowers in the center panel. The borders are executed in gold thread over the basic weave, using the supplementary weft ikat technique known as Songket. The gold bamboo shoot designs and stylised rosette patterns are said to deter bad luck. In Palembang, songket is part of the gifts given by the groom to the bride's family. They are considered family heirlooms, and are only worn at important family occasions.