Laotian Woven Panel

Silk weaving is an ancient domestic tradition in Laos, passed down for generations from mother to daughter. Laotian textiles play an important role in healing rituals and are worn during ceremonies of birth, puberty, marriage, death, or social elevation. In the past, Laotian women only wove for themselves and their family. They raised silkworms and used natural dyeing techniques. Because of this individualized process, there is a beautiful variety of patterns, shapes, and colors in their weaves.

This textile from southern Laos is woven with a pantheon of animals and the Naga snake motif. The naga motif is an ancient symbol found throughout Southeast Asia. It is a protector of the law or teachings of the Buddha as well as being a symbol of fertility and a guardian of human life.

Silk textiles of a specific design are still worn today during ceremonies of birth, puberty, marriage, death, or social elevation. In Laos, textiles play an important role in healing rituals and Buddhist traditions.