The roots of Aceh's history reach out through SE Asia to India, China, and the Middle East, bringing in a variety of cultural flavourings into its "winnowing basket". These diverse influences, culled from trade ventures, foreign battles, and religious missions, have through time, been sifted carefully and blended into the art and traditions of the indigenous peoples. This book focuses on the history of Aceh, its diverse heritage, and the artistic forms of expression of its people.

Although it is stamped with the title of Special Province, Daerah Istimewa Aceh is perhaps the region of Indonesia that best fits the archipelago's motto of Unity in Diversity. This beautifully-illustrated book describes the various influences that have contributed to Aceh's rich and diversified culture. ( )