This elegant silk pha sin or traditional tube skirt was handmade northeast Thailand during the middle of the 20th century.
It is a masterful example of mudmee (ikat) weaving from the Isaan region. Woven entirely from fine silk, the textile features a mesmerizing field of diamond motifs arranged in vertical zigzag bands, subtly interlaced with red, gold, and deep aubergine tones against a near-black ground. The effect is one of shimmering depth and rhythmic precision.
The upper and lower bands (hua sinh and tin sinh) are woven in solid black, anchoring the intricate central design (phuen sinh), which demonstrates the artisan’s exceptional control of resist-dye techniques. The serrated transition at the top of the patterned field—resembling a mountain range or ceremonial flame is a distinctive hallmark of refined northeastern Thai weaving.
Worn wrapped and pleated around the waist, this type of sarong is not only a garment but a statement of regional identity, status, and cultural continuity. Its dark, restrained palette suggests it may have been worn for formal or ceremonial occasions, perhaps even mourning, depending on local custom.
Size: 2'5 x 3'1 [74cm x 94cm]
Age: Mid Century
Origin: Isaan, Northeast Thailand
Type of Textile: Sarong
Material: Silk with weft ikat
Condition: Very good - a little white sticker residue
TX553
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