Flores is famous for Ikat. This weaving tradition is an important part of Flores culture.The skills of weaving, making natural dyes and the knowledge about the intricate patterns are passed on from mother to daughter.

Every district and village has its own colours and motives. These motives all have a meaning and are interwoven with local history and ceremonies. They are an important part of life.

There is no place on Flores where you don’t see Ikat, it is part of daily attire. The fabric is sewn into a tube shape and is called a sonke (pronounced as son-KÉH).

The sonke keeps you warm at cold nights and it is a must at any ceremony.

Government employees change their dresscode once per week – on a fixed day – and all wear uniforms made out of Ikat in their districts’ pattern.

On the picture you see Chief Donatus and other villagers wearing their traditional sonke at the Rimba ceremony in Nua’One near Kelimutu.

The picture above was taken in Lepo Lorun in Nita near Maumere