Balinese Textiles
Throughout the world, the wealth of traditional Balinese textiles is well known. Many of the best examples can be found in museums as far away as Switzerland.
While they are admired by many for their beauty and sheer artistry, textiles play an important part in the daily life and ceremonies of the Balinese. An interesting fact about traditional Balinese clothing is that most consist of a simple rectangular piece of cloth which is then elegantly wrapped around the body.
Textiles in Bali, though, not only serve as protection against the cold and sun but are also powerful symbols indicating the status and well being of the wearer. The women of royal families always vied with each other to make the most beautiful creations using sumptuous materials including silk imported from China and gold and silver thread.
