Earthy Kahuhu Manu Tau Andung

This Sumbanese woven textile features four distinct motifs: Kahuhu, Manu, Tau, and Andung. Each carries unique significance. The coastal bird motif, Kahuhu, symbolizes agility and heralds the rainy season, signaling time to prepare fields for farming. Manu, meaning rooster, signifies awareness, manliness, and leadership, as the rooster crows at dawn. Tau, meaning human, symbolizes ancestors and serves as a protective charm with supernatural power, though it is seldom used in daily life. The Andung motif, linked to the ancient headhunting tradition marked by the wulla kambohi or “months of fear,” represents victory, bravery, and heroism, with enemy heads displayed on the andung tree.

Sumbanese Antique Ikat, circa 1990
Origin: Melolo, Sumba
Material: Cotton, Natural Dye
Size: 138 x 272 cm
Condition: Pristine

Condition Guide
Like New: Items are in perfect condition
Pristine: It may show lightening to fabric, small stains and holes
Vintage: Condition is relative to age, since imperfections are what give vintage pieces their special character