Days Of Yore.

Batik is an Indonesian word referring to a dyeing technique used on textile. The word batik comes from two Javanese words "amba" and "titik". Amba means to write and "titik "means to dot. Together, batik means to write dot to dot.

According to archeological evidence, the batik technique is more than a thousand years old with a possibility that it originated in ancient Egypt or Sumeria but can be found in several countries in West Africa, like Nigeria, Cameroon and Mali. In Asia, there is batik in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Iran, Thailand and Malaysia.

Although it is unclear that this technique originated in one place or several, historians suggest that the concept originated in Egypt and spread to Africa, Persia and eventually to Asia. In Africa, batik is decorated with tribal patterns; in India with ancient paisley patterns and delicate oriental motifs in China and Japan. Still and all, batik reached its greatest development in Indonesia. Indonesian batik dates to the tenth century where fragments of a sculpture from a temple in Java shows figures wearing garments decorated with patterns that closely resemble contemporary batik.

Initially, batik was believed to be a pastime for aristocratic ladies in the Javanese courts to wear clothing with beautiful artistry and color as a symbol of their status. Many aristocratic families developed their own signature patterns that were unique to the area depending on the local availability of dyes and color preference. Slowly, the popularity of batik grew causing servants to be hired for batik production. Then, it came to be worn by both men and women of all social classes.

Over 3000 batik patterns have been recorded that incorporate symbolism, regional flora and fauna like birds, butterflies, fish, shells, flowers and leaves. Batik is not only about its beautiful visuals, but also the philosophical and spiritual expressions it brings.

They are divided into two categories; geometric and non- geometric.

Geometric Patterns.

1. Tumpal

Is a very old and popular design seen on batik that consists of rows with elongated lying triangles. It symbolizes life force and is believed to have magical powers. The design is usually used at the ends of a sarong.

2. Tambal miring

This is a patchwork of well- known designs that are within triangles, circles or diamond shaped outlines which are arranged in diagonal or horizontal rows. This design is to commemorate the humility of Buddha who wore robes that were made of patches.

3. Kawung

Is a combination of squares and circles in parallel rows. This pattern was formerly reserved for the sultan’s use. The geometric pattern represents the fruit of an areca palm tree, kolang kaling in Indonesian. This fruit is a delicacy enjoyed during Ramadan.

From Left: Tambal Miring, Tumpal, Kawung

Non - Geometric Patterns.

1. Ulamsari Mas

It illustrates vivid motifs with images of shrimp and fish. Bali created this batik to show their appreciation of the island’s natural resources of seafood and raw materials. It symbolizes the livelihood and prosperity of Balinese people.

2. Bird motifs

Birds were important in symbolism and art of Indonesia especially the Garuda which is associated with power and success. The Phoenix, a pattern from Chinese origins, symbolizes peace and prosperity. The Peacock motifs comes from Indian influences represents grace and pride.

3. Snake and dragon motifs

These two creatures are a symbol of fertility, underworlds and water. Usually they are depicted in pairs that face each other or look away from each other. Snakes and dragons are guardians of temples and are considered auspicious.

Photo by Atakkenzha