Batik

Johari Rahim Javanese Batik One of the major art forms in Southeast Asia is a type of dyed cloth called batik. The word batik is thought to be derived from the word “ambatik” which means “a cloth with little dots” in Indonesian. The suffix “tik” means little dot, drop, point or to make dots. Batik may also originate from the Javanese (a dialect of Indonesian native to the island of Java) word “tritik” which describes …

…exerted influence throughout the island. Dutch women favoured European floral bouquets, birds, butterflies and bees on their batik designs. Batik is one of Indonesia’s most refined artforms. Modern technology has developed new dyes and waxes, and has allowed for the mass production of batik cloth. Batik garments and tapestries are popular worldwide, and high quality batik can fetch high prices. This reflects the fine artistry that goes into the creation of beautiful batik cloth.