Selendang Padang

west sumatra – Indonesia

“Symbols of happiness and prosperity, embodying the essence of divine remembrance.

The embroidery shawl from Padang is influenced by Chinese auspicious design. In the middle part, there is a diamond shape framed with four motifs resembling leaves. In Chinese iconography, it is known as ‘ru-yi,’ (如意) and various butterfly ornaments that fill its empty spaces. Inside the diamond, there is a pair of phoenix birds and large botanical flowers with a blooming tree. Other motifs include wave-like patterns, key patterns, motifs resembling Buddha’s fingers, and an umbrella symbolizing Buddhism. In the past, these motifs were interpreted as symbols of happiness and prosperity, reminding of a higher power. The embroidery techniques used include suji saten, suji cair, suji kepalo samek terbuka dan sulam tekat.

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