Description
Antique Batik Tulis Kemben Cloth – Tiga Negri Style – Hand-Drawn Wax Resist Textile, Indonesia (1930s)
An exceptional example of traditional Indonesian textile artistry, this antique Batik Tulis Kemben cloth dates from the 1930s and represents the height of Javanese craftsmanship. Entirely hand-drawn using the batik tulis method, this ceremonial breast cloth, known as a kemben, features a visually striking Tiga Negri design—an elongated diamond motif framed by a stylized floral border.
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Origin: Java, Indonesia
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Technique: Hand-drawn Batik Tulis (wax resist dyeing)
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Design Style: Tiga Negri (Three Regions)
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Material: Plain woven cotton
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Date: Circa 1930s
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Dimensions: Approx. 190 x 60 cm
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Condition: Excellent antique condition – vibrant, detailed, and very well preserved
Historical and Artistic Significance:
Batik is a time-honored textile technique that originated in Indonesia and later spread across Asia and beyond. In Java, the craft evolved into an intricate and highly refined art form. The batik tulis process involves applying hot liquid wax to fabric using a stylus-like tool called a canting. This wax creates a resist that protects the fabric from dye. The wax is then removed by boiling, and the process is repeated—sometimes dozens of times—to produce the detailed multi-color patterns that define the finest antique batiks.
The Tiga Negri pattern is particularly prized, often symbolizing collaboration among the three principal batik-producing regions of Java. This piece embodies not only artistic beauty but also cultural and historical depth.
Collectible Value:
This rare and authentic textile is a museum-quality piece, highly sought after by collectors of antique Asian textiles, Southeast Asian art, and traditional ceremonial garments. It is perfect for interior décor, wall display, or as a unique cultural artifact in a curated collection.
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