Nomination of Indonesian Batik as Intagible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

 

On the 2nd October 2009 at the 4th International Convention on Intangible Cultural Heritage in Abu Dhabi UAE, UNESCO has accepted the nomination of Indonesian Batik as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, amongst 111 nominees worldwide.

The announcement is proudly presented by the JAKARTA CONVENTION & EXHIBITION BUREAU and THE PRESIDENT POST

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The foreground batik, Babon Angrem, a Semen (budding, spring) or free motif, represents a roosting hen protective of her hen and egg, concerns with its growth in a safe environment. The tentacle liked motif known as Batara Kala, the one eyed God usually found on Central Java temple doors, represents as Protector. Created and hand writtened on both sides with profound compassion by the Late Nyai Bei Mardusari, a legendary Javanese Court dancer and singer of the Court of Mangkunegara VII, one of a kind only for her ruler, never for the common people. Worn at ceremonial events such as an impending birth of a child.

The background batik, Udan Liris (gentle rain), one of the famous Lereng (diagonal) motifs, incorporating a repeat of up to 24 different patterns, represents blessings for calm, stability and prosperity. The Courts of Central Java are fond of the motif and worn regularly at most traditional ceremonies such as the Anniversary to the ascension to the throne. This piece is highly priced for its meticulous detail of 24 Lereng motifs.

Babon Angrem and Udan Liris have been specially selected for this auspicious occasion for its philosophical symbols that reflects the way of life, appreciated by the Courts of Java in particular, its common people in general and since the past decades by the people of Indonesia.

The motif of Semen and Lereng are amongst the forebidden patterns reserved specially for the Courts.

Both are of Surakarta (Solo, Central Java) origin and its Babaran (dyeing process) is from the atelier of the Late Ibu Kanjeng Wonogiri Harjowiratmo, the most renown artisan famous for the yellowish soga natural dye.

Batiks from the Courts of Surakarta and Jogyakarta have been very popular among the Indonesian ladies and worn extensively in Indonesia and overseas. Batik has been part of our heritage for centuries, we are proud to receive the long overdue worlds recognition as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.