Woven textiles from Timor are characterized by narrow multi-coloured warp stripes, as can be seen in the striped patterns that are found in horizontal bands interspersed across this cloth. Indigo, red and white thread might have been used to evoke talismanic protection for its wearer. Between these multi-coloured warp stripes, there are several wider bands of hook-and-rhomb patterns executed in cream-coloured threads. Variations of the hook-and-rhomb pattern are commonly found on Timorese textiles and were derived from stylized depictions of a reptile’s head. The use of reptile motifs has been interpreted as an influence derived from pre-historic Dong-son culture or local mythological beliefs in reptile spirits.
