Irresistible ikat
Homes & Antiques|September 2023
The intricate dyeing technique of ikat has changed little since its nascence and the fabrics remain much admired, says Celia Rufey
Celia Rufey
Irresistible ikat

Ikat resist-dyed woven textiles share an exceedingly long worldwide history. Rudiments of the technique appeared early in Indonesia - ikat, meaning tie or bind, is part of its language - as well as in China, India, Central Asia, Japan, Africa and South America. Ikats surviving from the 18th century and earlier are the ones most seen in collections, and their abstract patterns and blurred outlines are now borrowed for printed textiles serving fashion and interiors.

This story is from the September 2023 edition of Homes & Antiques.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the September 2023 edition of Homes & Antiques.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM HOMES & ANTIQUESView All
Asante & Ewe Kente
Homes & Antiques

Asante & Ewe Kente

This West African stripwoven cloth dates back centuries and is still manufactured today, representing a vibrant symbol of the area's history and traditions, says Celia Rufey

time-read
3 mins  |
July 2024
A place of CONTRASTS
Homes & Antiques

A place of CONTRASTS

Filled with art, Murano glass and other treasures, this Milanese villa is experiencing a new era of splendour thanks to Marco Arosio

time-read
3 mins  |
July 2024
Industrial OASIS
Homes & Antiques

Industrial OASIS

Pernille Holm transformed this Copenhagen workshop into an inviting home that's packed with quirky details and original features

time-read
2 mins  |
July 2024
Greek mood
Homes & Antiques

Greek mood

Returning to France after several years living on the island of Hydra, Véronique Bloch-Powell has infused the interior of this 18th-century mill with Greek style, via furniture and paintings brought back from her Hellenic journeys

time-read
3 mins  |
July 2024
HEIRLOOMS OF THE FUTURE GERALD MAK
Homes & Antiques

HEIRLOOMS OF THE FUTURE GERALD MAK

The ceramic artist talks to Dominique Corlett about Meissen, friendly gestures, and the benefits of distance when considering your heritage

time-read
4 mins  |
July 2024
Six of the best COTTAGES FOR GARDEN LOVERS
Homes & Antiques

Six of the best COTTAGES FOR GARDEN LOVERS

Summertime is when the English country garden is at its best, which is why you should pick one of these picturesque cottages, castles or cabins to enjoy arural idyll, says Rhiannon Batten

time-read
3 mins  |
July 2024
48 hours in NARBERTH & the Pembrokeshire Coast
Homes & Antiques

48 hours in NARBERTH & the Pembrokeshire Coast

Much feted for its food scene, the small Welsh town of Narberth can also be applauded for its vintage and antiques offering, which has blossomed in recent years, says Rosanna Morris

time-read
4 mins  |
July 2024
TRAVEL
Homes & Antiques

TRAVEL

Visit Narberth, plus six holiday cottages for garden lovers. Review of The Lido Townhouse by Katie Pike, travel stories by Rhiannon Batten

time-read
2 mins  |
July 2024
Pride of place COALBROOKDALE GARDEN SEAT
Homes & Antiques

Pride of place COALBROOKDALE GARDEN SEAT

The Shropshire village made famous by the Darby family's adventures in iron is as celebrated for its ornate garden furniture as it is for its ground-breaking bridge, says Janet Gleeson

time-read
4 mins  |
July 2024
A buyer's guide to GARDEN ANTIQUES
Homes & Antiques

A buyer's guide to GARDEN ANTIQUES

Elevate your garden, Bridgerton style, with opulent statues, romantic fountains and oversized urns

time-read
4 mins  |
July 2024