Some of the world's finest textiles are made in Indonesia, the great archipelago that embraces thousand of islands between Sumatra and New Guinea. Prized as items of trade and inheritance, fabric are often displayed or exchange during such rites of passage as coming of age and marriage. Textiles are also a symbol of prestiges, and in the past the most exquisite design were used only by the highest ranks of society.

Indonesia is justly famed fir its textiles decorated with batik and ikat, but there are many other fascinating fabric traditions, such as supplementary weft, which has only recently begun to be fully appreciated in the West. The author focuses on these techniques and other decorative methods such as embroidery, couching, applique, and gilding. He also shows how the skills of the weavers and dyers are acquired and developed.