Batik in Indonesia has been recognized since the seventeenth century and is written and painted on palm leaves. Centuries ago early batiks were adorned with patterns of animals or plants. Later batik paintings showed abstract patterns such as clouds, temple relief, puppets and many more designs. The patterns vary according to the local culture and philosophy of each region in Indonesia. It is believed that batik existed since the Majapahit times and was discovered only in the form of hand-written batik until the early twentieth century. Since then a more modern way of batik making, known as printed batik or batik “cap” was created.
Batik Keraton is appreciated for its gorgeous traditional patterns – a distinctive coloration of the palace reflecting a blend of art, customs, way of life, and personality of the palace itself – a preserved trademark that grows and thrives only within the palaces of Java and Madura.
In the early days, batik making was only reserved for the Keraton princesses, the Royal Family and their followers. Since many of the king’s followers resided outside of the palace, they took this art form beyond the palace walls and into their villages. The village women outside of the Keraton learned the art of batik making in their spare time, a hobby that was gradually adopted by the local community.
Some patterns were specifically dedicated to former kings such as Parang Barong, with a 20-centimeter long parang (machete) image, while the Cement Chain pattern is derived from Keraton Surakarta, formerly used by the king’s messengers.
Batik is a timeless piece of art that continues to change and adapt to new influences. The batiks on exhibition and sale will range from eastern to western Java. Discover the royal prides of four magnificent Javanese keraton (palaces), beginning in East Java with the charming Keraton Sumenep Madura, the gracious Keraton Surakarta, the glorious batiks from the Sultan Palace in Jogjakarta, and lastly the Keraton Cirebonan from West Java.
We will be presenting some masterpiece patterns, such as Kereta Peksi Naga Liman, a classical art from Keraton Cirebonan; Parang Barong, a unique design found in Keraton Yogya, as well as Sekar Jagad and Ler, both unique patterns from Keraton Sumenep on Madura island.
In this exhibition and sale, you will also find delicate, elegant embroideries complementing the batiks. The art of embroidery art requires dedication, patience, concentration and precision. A presentation of exquisite jewelry from Asiattic Jewelry Design and Jannice is not to be missed.
All of these incredible batiks, embroidery and jewelry are available for viewing in the Keraton Ballroom in Hotel Tugu Malang – an elegant space decorated with oval antique mirrors, colonial-style chandeliers, elegant ornaments inspired by the decoration of Javanese Palace Lobby and hardwood flooring.
The Luxury of Batik Keraton, Embroidery and Jewelry
12th – 27th April 2014
Keraton Ballroom – Hotel Tugu Malang
Jalan Tugu no. 3 Malang
Tel: 0341 363 891
Email: malang[at]tuguhotels[dot]com
