Woman's Ceremonial Skirt (tapis) c. 19th century

This rectangular Woman's Ceremonial Skirt, or ‘tapis’, was made by Paminggir people. It showcases horizontal bands in earth tones, interspersed with lighter decorative stripes. The skirt's structure is built upon repetition and symmetry, creating a visual rhythm. The arrangement of stripes offers a study in contrasts. Darker, textured bands evoke a sense of groundedness, while the lighter bands introduce intricate motifs, providing visual complexity. The skirt's composition invites one to consider binary oppositions: dark and light, simple and complex, horizontal versus vertical. These contrasts create a textile that is visually harmonious but also intellectually stimulating. The formal elements of this ‘tapis’—its lines, colors, and textures—serve not only an aesthetic purpose but also communicate cultural values and beliefs. The skirt invites us to appreciate its visual structure and its role in shaping social meanings.