This blue batik cloth is fully adorned with finely handwritten white calligraphic inscriptions. There is also a curious addition of lobed cartouches inscribed with a mirrored image of the Arabic letter ‘W’, which may have held special significance to the owner. Depending on their shape and size, calligraphic batiks are believed to have been most commonly used as head-cloths, Qur'an covers, talismanic vests, ceremonial banners and coffin covers. This particular piece is likely to have served as a coffin cover or a ceremonial banner. Cloths such as these served as ceremonial and talismanic purposes. They were attributed with sacred, protective and sometimes supernatural powers. These cloths were often used in battle or illness, or when divine guidance was required.
