Weaving Culture_of_Laos

weaving dominate form of artistic cultural expression in laos, common across ethnicities , recognized cultural export abroad. lao mothers pass weaving skills on daughters sign of eligibility marriage. patterns, techniques , colors vary according region or ethnic group.

women traditionally raise silk worms on constant diet of mulberry leaves, silk woven on hand looms in north or (less commonly) on foot looms in south. each region , ethnic group has own traditional weaving techniques. in south weaving characterized intricate patterns of elephants, temples, khmer influenced designs , features intricate beadwork. northeast known using raw silk , cotton, , tye-dying raw silk known matmii or ikat. central laos runs along mekong river , known natural indigo dyes , diamond patterns symbolize protective scales of mythical naga. in former royal city of luang prabang embroidery using delicate gold , silver threads preserved. art passed mother daughter , both patterns , pieces embellished each passing generation.