Ternate woven fabric is one of Indonesia’s cultural heritage that holds high aesthetic and historical value. This fabric originates from Ternate, an island located in the North Maluku Province.
Ternate woven fabric is not only known for its exceptional weaving quality but also for the rich philosophy embedded in each motif and color. This article will discuss the characteristics, motifs, usage, materials, philosophy, and unique facts of Ternate woven fabric.
Characteristics of Ternate Woven Fabric
Ternate woven fabric has characteristics that distinguish it from woven fabrics from other regions in Indonesia. This fabric is known for its weaving technique using traditional tools, such as nonjot, a simple weaving tool consisting of two main parts: a spindle and a bobbin.
Ternate weaving produces relatively thick fabric, yet it remains comfortable to wear, especially in tropical climates.
Generally, Ternate woven fabric emphasizes rich and vibrant colors, with touches of gold or silver that give a luxurious impression. The smoothness of the weave and the beauty of the colors make it a distinctive feature, making it one of the fabrics with high artistic value.
Motifs of Ternate Woven Fabric
The motifs of Ternate woven fabric are diverse and have deep meanings. Some of the common motifs found in Ternate woven fabric include:
• Geometric Motifs: These motifs depict highly regular patterns, such as lines, squares, and triangles. The geometric patterns symbolize the order of nature and the daily life of the Ternate people.
• Nature Motifs: Some motifs in Ternate woven fabric are inspired by the surrounding nature, such as flowers, leaves, or other natural forms. These reflect the close relationship between the Ternate people and their environment, particularly the sea, which is their main source of livelihood.
• Cultural and Religious Motifs: There are also motifs related to cultural and religious symbols, such as those reflecting the influence of Islam in Ternate. Crescent moon symbols or calligraphy often appear on the fabric as a representation of faith.
• Traditional Ternate Motifs: Some motifs also reflect the social life of the Ternate people, such as symbols of unity, family, or social status. These motifs are often passed down through generations and hold great traditional value.
Usage of Ternate Woven Fabric
Traditional Ternate woven fabric is usually worn in various ceremonial and official events, such as weddings, cultural festivals, and religious celebrations. It is also commonly worn by the people of Ternate in their daily lives, especially by women in the form of sarongs or shawls.
In the past, Ternate woven fabric was often worn by nobles or tribal leaders as a symbol of social status. Today, in addition to being used in traditional ceremonies, Ternate woven fabric is also worn in modern clothing, such as dresses, suits, and accessories, combined with contemporary designs.
Materials of Ternate Woven Fabric
Ternate woven fabric is made from high-quality natural fibers. The main materials used include:
• Natural Fibers: Cotton, silk, and ramie are the primary materials used in making Ternate woven fabric. Cotton provides softness, while silk adds shine and smoothness to the fabric. Ramie is used to provide strength and durability to the fabric.
• Natural Dyes: To dye Ternate woven fabric, the people of Ternate often use natural dyes from plants such as indigo leaves, tree bark, and flowers. These natural dyes produce brighter and more durable colors and are environmentally friendly.
• Gold and Silver Threads: Some Ternate woven fabrics use gold or silver threads, which add a luxurious and elegant touch to the fabric. The use of gold or silver threads also represents the wealth and social status of the wearer.
Philosophy of Ternate Woven Fabric
Each motif on Ternate woven fabric is not just a design but carries a deep philosophy. The philosophy of this fabric often relates to the life of the Ternate people, which is closely tied to nature, culture, and religion.
• Harmony Between Nature and Humans: The nature motifs on Ternate woven fabric symbolize the harmonious relationship between humans and nature. The people of Ternate believe that preserving nature is part of maintaining life’s harmony.
•Symbols of Life: Geometric motifs and other symbols often represent the journey of human life, such as growth, change, and balance in life. These motifs also reflect wisdom and prosperity.
• Cultural and Historical Wealth: Some motifs of Ternate woven fabric reflect the cultural wealth of Ternate, which has existed since the Sultanate era, symbolizing the strength and grandeur of the Ternate kingdom in the past.
Unique Facts about Ternate Woven Fabric
1.World Cultural Heritage: Ternate woven fabric has been recognized as one of Indonesia’s cultural heritages, rich in artistic and traditional value. In fact, some types of Ternate woven fabric have been showcased in various international events as proof of its existence in the world.
2. Meticulous Handcrafting: The process of making Ternate woven fabric takes a considerable amount of time and is done by hand using techniques passed down through generations. This makes each Ternate woven fabric a unique piece of art.
3. Influence of Islamic Culture: Ternate woven fabric is also influenced by the Islamic culture that developed in this region. Religious symbols, such as calligraphy or crescent moon motifs, often appear in the design of Ternate woven fabric.
4.Connection to the History of the Ternate Kingdom: Ternate woven fabric not only reflects the life of the people but is also closely related to the history of the Ternate kingdom, which had a significant influence in the global spice trade in the past.
