작품 상세

The composition presents two women weaving mats, their hands moving rhythmically over strands of natural fibres. Set against a humble backdrop, the scene highlights the refined skill and patience required in this traditional craft. The artist's attention to ornate patterns, from the intricate batik fabrics worn by the women to the finely made handicrafts, draws focus to the beauty of decorative pieces that surround everyday life. Through this work, the painting serves as a gentle reminder of a local handcraft tradition that is slowly fading in the face of urbanisation and mass production. Self-taught, Ismail Mat Hussin worked as a graphic designer cum illustrator at Syarikat Percetakan Dian in Kota Baru from 1979 to 1991, and had been painting virtually full time since 1968. He was a member of Peseni (Persatuan Senilukis Kelantan) and the Angkatan Pelukis SeMalaysia. He also painted in watercolours, but his batiks fetch higher prices. He was qualified in music with a Grade V certificate in violin from the Royal School of Music in London, and worked part-time at Radio-Televisyen Malaysia Kota Baru. His highest auction record was RM 140,000, achieved in Henry Butcher Art Auction few years ago, with a batik masterpiece of size 96 x 186cm.