Ceremonial Cloth (Tampan)


Tampan are small square-shaped cloths that were exchanged during important rites of passage in Lampung area. They are used for display as well as covering for offerings and gifts during wedding, funerals and other rituals. This one portrays a ship on the bottom with central-house figures sitting under umbrellas. Above it, there are paired figures under umbrellas riding elephants, and the next level up shows affronted peacocks, standing figures, and elephants. Tampans of this type with readable imageries are thought to be earlier, perhaps mid-19th century or before.

Title: Ceremonial Cloth (Tampan)

Artist: Unknown

Creation Date: c. 1800

Geography: Indonesia, Sumatra

Culture: Lampung

Medium: Cotton

Technique: Plain weave, supplementary weft patterning (brocading)

Dimensions: 60.5 x 63 cm (23 7/8 x 24 7/8 in)

Classification: Textiles

Credit Line: Gift of Helena Hernmarck in memory of Mary Kahlenberg, 2022

Object ID Number: 2022.12.KT663