This is a ‘kain panjang’, an unsewn sarong, from Yogyakarta in central Java. It features an interesting combination of motifs including winged ‘naga’ (mythical serpent), ‘wayang’ figures and circular medallions with a ‘parang rusak’ motif. These are all presented on a background known as the ‘geringsing’ (fish-scale) motif. The naga represents a powerful protective deity and the wayang figures contain important symbolic social messages centering on the various characters of the Hindu epics, the ‘Ramayana’ and ‘Mahabharata’. Hence, this textile not only has a protective effect for the wearer but also communicates symbolic messages. It is generally believed that batik first came to Java from India although the exact date for this is unclear. However, most experts accept that batik had more or less taken its modern form by the 17th century.
