Lao Tai Mosquito Net Border

Bed linens are a very important element in a Lao Tai woman’s dowry. While the mattresses, blankets, pillows, and mosquito nets are typically made by the bride herself, other family members occasionally help if it is a large dowry.

The Lao Tai people of Laos are a part of a larger group spread throughout Southeast Asia – also known as “Shan” in Burma, “Dai” in China, and “Tai” in Thailand. Geometric designs are common in their textile arts, and included in some pieces are images of the Pii Nyak, an evil spirit that becomes protective when woven into a textile. This mythical creature has two serpent arms and a triangular head. Since this piece was used as a border to a mosquito net, the pii nyak can be seen as protecting the sleeping person from disease.