ikat

noun

Etymology: From Malay ikat (“bind”).

1. Traditional Indonesian decorative technique in which warp or weft threads, or both, are tie-dyed before weaving.

   “Other noteworthy sales included an Etruscan bronze by Royal-Athena Galleries; a 17th-century Mexican tortoise-shell and mother-of-pearl inlaid chest by Arita Gallery of Buenos Aires; Suzani and ikat textiles by Gallery Afrodit of Ankara, Turkey; and a Tiffany Studios peony lamp from 1900, sold by Macklowe.”

2. A work woven in this style.

   “Madeline Weinrib, for one, works with traditional artisans to update the hand-woven ikats she uses for her chic clutches.”