The Batik, which Javanese people also refer to as batik manah (“mystical experience”), derives from the Indonesian word “ambatik”. It is a very ancient art technique linked to the decoration of cotton or silk fabrics. They cover the parts they do not want to be dyed with liquid wax, either by immersion or through an instrument called “tjanting”. The color is then poured and absorbed by the fabric; as a final step, the wax is removed with boiling water. The various phases are repeated depending on how many colors are needed.
Despite being a widespread technique throughout Southeast Asia, we can surely say that the Batik was originated in the island of Java, where it was taken, presumably in the fifth century AD, from Indian or Sinhalese merchants.
Symbolism and traditional culture are the key words of the close link between Indonesia and the batik. After spreading first to all imperial courts and the wealthy classes, the Batik artisan technique slowly became a fundamental element of Indonesia’s culture and tradition. For the people of this country, in fact, this ancient method is an integral part of society and everyday life.
Every important event of human life in these islands of Southeast Asia is closely connected with the batik that shows, through its traditional designs, a symbolic representation of humans’ entire journey: from childhood to marriage, from daily life to the moment of death, when the coffins of the deceased are wrapped up in typical burial cloths that are also decorated accordingly.
This is why UNESCO added the Batik to the “Intangible Cultural Heritage” list in 2009.
