This luxurious silk pelangi (tie-dye) shouldercloth, originating from Palembang, South Sumatra, Indonesia between 1900 and 1920, is a vibrant testament to the region's rich silk-weaving heritage. Measuring 66 inches by 33 inches (168 cm x 84 cm), the textile features a striking green centerfield that contrasts sharply with deep cherry-red borders. The central field is organized into a grid of pale yellow, white, and orange lozenges, each containing four-petalled flowers and multi-colored stars in shades of violet, mauve, orange, and cream.
The craftsmanship of this piece is exceptional, utilizing a combination of plangi (tie-dye) and tritik (stitch-resist) techniques. A unique characteristic of this specific cloth is the hand-painted mauve and violet sections, which were added after the primary dyeing process. The borders are particularly sophisticated, featuring double rows of yellow square crosses, blue and white zigzag stitch-resist lines, and a glimmering line of lozenges edged with gold lace. Seven elaborate palmetto motifs at each end serve as the textile's tour de force. The silk remains in excellent condition, retaining its strength and a lively sheen.