Red Naga Table Runner

Table runner hand loomed on a loin loom in Nagaland, India.  In red & black cotton.

30cm x 165cm long

Dry clean or hand wash in mild detergent.  Do not rub, wring or bleach.  Dry flat indoors or in the shade.  

The Nagas of North Eastern India are traditionally cultivators and were known as warriors and headhunters. These two activities have been responsible for the development of vibrant textiles. The Nagas used and still use the 'back strap or body tension' loom for weaving fabric. It is the most favoured loom, and is very convenient for the weaver because of its portability. In Nagaland weaving is in the domain of women. Spinning, dyeing and weaving are exclusively undertaken by women. 

Although the most common pattern is of bold colour stripes of varying width, additional pattern in weft is inserted by picking the warp yam. Most common motifs have geometric designs - zigzags formed by alternate upright and pendent triangles, lozenges and diamonds. Today weaving is an important cottage industry in Nagaland.                                             

SOURCE:  University of Nebraska - Lincoln DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln