The rectangular panels of this sacred cloth, known as ‘sarita’, depict geometric patterns, as well as scenes showing men leading buffalo. Such sacred cloths were used during funerals of high-ranking people to cover the chest of the dead and were also worn as a head wrapper by ceremonial leaders. This textile is made by a resist dyeing process similar to batik. Toraja textiles are rich in variety and reflect knowledge of different techniques such as ikat weaving, surface patterning and the use of imported beads.
