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Ceiling canopy (leluwuor) with a design of holy men and lotus surrounding the symbol of Siwa
Ceiling canopy (leluwuor) with a design of holy men and lotus surrounding the symbol of Siwa

Ceiling canopy (leluwuor) with a design of holy men and lotus surrounding the symbol of Siwa

MediumSilk embroidery on cotton, with mirror glass, scrap cloth triangles, and nylon fringe
Dimensions47 1/4 × 49 3/16 inches (120 × 125 cm)
CultureBali, Negara
ClassificationsTextiles
Credit LineAcquired through the George and Mary Rockwell Fund
Terms
  • Textiles
  • Silk
  • Nylon
  • Flowers
  • Lotuses
  • Gods
  • Writing
  • Priests
  • Headdresses
  • Bells
  • Dragonflies
  • Geese
  • Pigs
  • Religion
  • Hinduism
  • Cotton cloth
  • Balinese
Object number2007.031.008
Label CopyThe Balinese script in the center of this ceremonial canopy is composed of sacred letters, here denoting the god Siwa (Shiva). In the four corners Balinese ascetics or holy men with their traditional jackets and elaborate headdresses each hold a petal and one holds a sacred bell (bajra). Between them are large lotus motifs. Depictions of persons on these embroidered ceiling canopies are rare, as most have floral and geometric motifs with little embroidery. The dragonfly, goose, and pig are apparently just decorations. The six words are transliterations from Balinese language but their precise meaning and significance is unclear: Ukir (carved or engraved), kawi (ancient form of Janavese) nela jang (fisher), and tampaking kuntul (a heron who catches fish).
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