Irresistible ikat

The intricate dyeing technique of ikat has changed little since its nascence and the fabrics remain much admired, says Celia Rufey

- Celia Rufey

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.