Ateneo de Davao University

GE 1107 Art Appreciation

Worksheet:
Reading the Image/Object

Instructions:
1. Visit the virtual exhibit “The Art of the Malong” of the Ayala Museum on Google
Culture and Arts at https://g.co/arts/g8QZK7tiEtT84jLG7
2. Explore the textiles on the page.
3. Observe each textile. Select what appeals to you the most.
4. Research about the textile that you have selected.
5. Answer the worksheet below.
6. Download this worksheet. Upload it back with your answers in this Assignment tab.
7. Write your own analysis below. Make sure to cite atleast three proper sources.
Name: Kathleen Mae P. Shitan
Class Code and Art Appreciation Schedule: 16-569 11:00AM-12:30PM MW
Date: September 7, 2022

READING THE IMAGE

Name of the Object/ Artifact: Malong a Andon

Photo of the Object/ Artifact:

BASIC DOCUMENTARY INFORMATION

Title of the Work/ Name of the Object: Maranao Malong a Andon
Name of the Artist/ Indigenous Group: Maranao
Medium and Techniques: silk with decorative tapestry; hand-woven textile
Dimensions and Measurements: 160 x 93 cm
Date of Work: 20th century (1960s)
Provenance: Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, Mindanao, Philippines

THE BASIC SEMIOTIC PLANE

The Visual Elements and how they are used:
The Malong a Andon features two prominent motifs that occupy the fabric.
Specifically, these are the pako rabong or fern motif and the patola motif, a floral form in
fourfold symmetry. As seen in the picture, the brightly-colored motifs are placed on a red
background, making the Malong vibrant. Specifically, the ferns in the design are all in yellow
or orange, while the colors in the patola motif include pink and a bit of dark blue. They are
woven into the fabric using a supplementary weft technique.
The Choice of Medium and Technique:
The Malong a Andon is made from silk fibers using the weft ikat technique. This
technique exemplifies late 20th-century production. This type of malong features a langkit
that closes the sarong to form a tube. Like in most traditional malong a andon, the
decorative langkit in this artwork is woven separately on a small loom for subsequent
incorporation into the garment.

THE CONTEXTUAL PLANE

The malong is a traditional tubular cloth that has been used by different indigenous
communities in the Philippines since pre-colonial times. It is originally made by
mindanaoan weavers, specifically the Maranao people. Moreover, it is considered as a
traditional clothing for the Maranaos. The fabric can also be used as a blanket, skirt, baby
carrier, and more. Because of its usefulness and popularity, other provinces outside
Mindanao started to use and manufacture their own version of malong.

REFLECTION QUESTION:
What is the power of this art?
This art is unique because each pattern and motif has its own meaning. Hence not
only is it pleasing to the eye, but it also tells a message. This art also showcases the skills,
creativity, and culture of Mindanaoans. Since the designs are so intricate, it also highlights
patience and hard work. Most importantly, the artwork spotlights the cultural identity of
Mindanao and the Philippines.

REFERENCES
Enclosed skirt ( malong a andon), 20th century by Maranao. (n.d.). Retrieved September 7,
2022, from https://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/collection/works/212.2005/#about

Malong | Tubular Garment | Ayala Museum. (n.d.). Retrieved September 7, 2022, from
https://ayalamuseum.org/collection/9285617
Romancing the Malong: From Cradle to Crypt By Christine F. Godinez-Ortega. (n.d.).
Retrieved September 7, 2022, from
https://cpcabrisbane.org/Kasama/2002/V16n3/Malong.htm