DETAILS:

The Ao Khoác II is a one-of-a-kind throw pillow featuring different distinct textile variations, including the center section which was made from a vintage Hmong jacket from Vietnam with ethnic Hmong embroidery on indigo hemp, traditional and contemporary ikat from Indonesia, and a Dhaka weave from Nepal. It is a beautiful and unique accent pillow that will add an element of ethnic textile distinctiveness to any room in which it is displayed.

• 20” x 20”

• Front – cotton

• Back – linen, in beige

• Zipper closure

• Down feather insert

• Fabric origins: Indonesia, Vietnam, Nepal

THE STORY:

This is, by far, another one of my favorite pillows combining some of my favorite textile techniques. The fabric on the left and a smaller piece on the right are is a beautiful example of the intricate patterns achieved by the traditional Indonesian ikat. Ikat is the exact art of wrapping warp threads to form a resist before submerging the warp into the dye bath. It requires the re-wrapping of threads if more than one color is used in the fabric. It is a very precise technique to ensure a consistent pattern. I purchased the Indonesian fabrics used in this pillow from Pekerti, a fair trade organization I have worked with for many years which is located on the island of Java. My first visit was in 1992 as a consultant of SERRV International and then, years later, as a Buyer for SERRV. The first visit opened my eyes to the beautiful ikat weaving of Indonesia.

The center section is repurposed from a vintage Hmong jacket. The indigo fabric is handspun hemp, embellished with coconut beads. Decorative cross-stitch embroidery patterns in rust, black, and white are the traditional Hmong “flower” motif embroidery.

The elegance and sophistication of the Dhaka weave, on the bottom of the pillow, is from Nepal and woven in colors of navy blue, silver gray, gold and blue. The geometric Dhaka fabric is an intricate and traditional hand weaving technique practiced by many generations of weavers. Dhaka patterns are unique and special. This fabric is truly a form of the rich, cultural expression reflecting the Nepali’s mastery of craftsmanship. I did not have an opportunity to visit the Dhaka weavers when I was in Nepal but have appreciated the infinite numbers of patterns and colors I have seen in the markets. The Dhaka fabric I have used is from the Association of Craft Producers, a fair trade organization located in Kathmandu.