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Batik
Ceremonial lower body wrapper (kain dodot)
Batik
Indonesian (Javanese)
Dutch colonial rule
mid-19th century
Object Place: Java, Indonesia
Medium/Technique
Cotton, natural dyes; plain weave, hand-drawn (tulis) wax-resist (batik)
Dimensions
210.1 x 319 cm (82 11/16 x 125 9/16 in.)
Credit Line
Samuel Putnam Avery Fund
Accession Number31.913
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAsia, Fashion and Textiles
ClassificationsCostumes
DescriptionCeremonial cotton batik lower body wrapper (kain dodot) with central field (tengahan) in solid dark blue surrounded by a deep border of stylized plant, animal and temple motifs (semen pattern) in light brown and dark blue from which long, sinuous points (tjemoekirrans) extend into the center field. The piece is made of two lengths sewn together.
The semen design, which represents the rich symbolism of Javanese cosmology, is one of the "forbidden" patterns originally restricted to use by the aristocracy at court.
The kain dodot is an overskirt that is worn draped and folded, sometimes with a train. It is traditionally worn only by royalty, by the bride and groom at a wedding or other ceremonial occasions at court.
The semen design, which represents the rich symbolism of Javanese cosmology, is one of the "forbidden" patterns originally restricted to use by the aristocracy at court.
The kain dodot is an overskirt that is worn draped and folded, sometimes with a train. It is traditionally worn only by royalty, by the bride and groom at a wedding or other ceremonial occasions at court.
ProvenancePurchased by MFA on November 5, 1931