Timor

Timor is an island in Southeast Asia, divided today between Indonesia and Timor-Leste. Its many communities developed different traditions of tattooing, jewellery and woven clothing.

Historical accounts describe tattoos linked with protection, beauty or particular occasions. Some also mention tattooing during wakes. These were local practices, rather than one custom followed across the island.

Tais, the handwoven textile tradition of Timor-Leste, plays an especially important role. Cloth is worn, given as a gift and used in ceremonies and exchanges between families. Colour and pattern reflect local knowledge and the skills of weavers.

Portraits place garments beside ornaments and bodily markings. Some pictures also show people from neighbouring islands such as Rote and Solor. The variety reveals how closely appearance could be connected with a person's home, relationships and the occasion for which they were dressed.