ikat geringsing

Bali – Indonesia

“A symbol of divine protection and a plea for the benevolence of Batara Indra, the creator.

The use of textiles in ceremonial contexts in Indonesia, particularly the double ikat cloths from Bali known as Geringsing, has deep symbolic significance. These cloths, which are kept intact until they are used in rituals such as weddings and first haircuts, represent protection from harm. The intricate double ikat technique used to create geringsing is exclusively practiced in the Balinese village of Tenganan Pageringsingan. These textiles play a crucial role in life-crisis ceremonies and are also utilized in various other ceremonies throughout Bali, including those for children, tooth filing, marriage, illness, death, and temple adornments. Geringsing exemplifies the craftsmanship of Indonesian double ikat and holds significance not only in Indonesia but also in India and Japan. It embodies the identity and religious values of the Tenganan community, signifying a special spiritual belief bestowed by the God Batara Indra, the creator. These textiles are draped around temple sculptures and used in remedies against lameness and insanity.

NOTE: All contents (text and images) are protected by Indonesian cultural property law. This documentation is intended for educational purposes and to support the preservation of Southeast Asian textile heritage. Any use of published materials is permitted only with attribution to this website as the original source.

batik lasem sampek eng tay 

central java – Indonesia

“Evocative of purity and eternal love, an inspiration from Sampek Eng Tay timeless tale

The captivating love stories portrayed in the timeless tale of Sampek eng Tay have been a tremendous wellspring of inspiration for the Chinese-Javanese community, igniting their exceptional skill in fashioning the magnificent Batik Lasem Sampek Eng Tay. Lasem Batik bears the indelible mark of Chinese cultural influences. Commonly referred to as ‘Batik Bang Bangan’, this Batik is always coupled with the graceful Kebaya, a traditional Malay upper garment.

The term ‘bang-bangan’, originating from the Javanese language, signifies a white porcelain background adorned with vibrant red motifs or vice versa. The art of applying red dye is a distinctive talent possessed by Lasem batik artisans, with the hue leaning towards a deep maroon reminiscent of the color of chicken blood. Evocative of purity and eternal love, the enchanting lotus and butterfly motifs draw inspiration from the fabled Sampek Eng Tay, while the elegant lily and daffodil designs showcase European influences.

NOTE: All contents (text and images) are protected by Indonesian cultural property law. This documentation is intended for educational purposes and to support the preservation of Southeast Asian textile heritage. Any use of published materials is permitted only with attribution to this website as the original source.

songket lepus berakam

south sumatra – Indonesia

“Virtues of sincerity and purity that spark beyond the beauty of the beholders

Kain Songket Lepus Berakam is a traditional tubular garment exclusively worn by women. It holds great significance, serving as a breast cloth for brides or a shoulder cloth for young women, particularly in formal settings. The exquisite kembang manggis or mangosten flower motif adorning the fabric represents the virtues of sincerity and purity. “Lepus” refers to the intricate gold-thread weaving that covers the entire surface of the cloth, known as Songket, while “berakam” signifies the beautiful embroidery that enhances its overall splendor.

NOTE: All contents (text and images) are protected by Indonesian cultural property law. This documentation is intended for educational purposes and to support the preservation of Southeast Asian textile heritage. Any use of published materials is permitted only with attribution to this website as the original source.

Selendang Padang

west sumatra – Indonesia

“Symbols of happiness and prosperity, embodying the essence of divine remembrance.

The embroidery shawl from Padang is influenced by Chinese auspicious design. In the middle part, there is a diamond shape framed with four motifs resembling leaves. In Chinese iconography, it is known as ‘ru-yi,’ (如意) and various butterfly ornaments that fill its empty spaces. Inside the diamond, there is a pair of phoenix birds and large botanical flowers with a blooming tree. Other motifs include wave-like patterns, key patterns, motifs resembling Buddha’s fingers, and an umbrella symbolizing Buddhism. In the past, these motifs were interpreted as symbols of happiness and prosperity, reminding of a higher power. The embroidery techniques used include suji saten, suji cair, suji kepalo samek terbuka dan sulam tekat.

NOTE: All contents (text and images) are protected by Indonesian cultural property law. This documentation is intended for educational purposes and to support the preservation of Southeast Asian textile heritage. Any use of published materials is permitted only with attribution to this website as the original source.