Made by the Kementerian Perindusterian Djawatan Balai2 Penjelidikan / Pendidikan Balai Penjelidikan Batik. WITH: An unpublished typescript article "Symbolism of the Designs and Colours in Batik" by R. Kusumanto Setyonegoro
Jogjakarta, Indonesia: Balai Penjelidikan Batik [Batik Research Center], [ca 1960s]. First edition, signed by the author on the title-page. Oblong 4to (19 x 33 cm). Black cord-tied gilt-lettered boards with batik sample mounted to front cover; 11 unnumbered glassine-protected leaves; nine (9) mounted batik samples with accompanying text in English and Indonesian, each sample accompanied by a mounted black and white snapshot photograph of textile workers demonstrating different processes of production; mimeographed map of 29 Batik-producing centers mounted to rear pastedown.
Accompanied by an 8-page typescript titled "Symbolism of the Designs and Colours in Batik" on the letterhead of R. Kusumanto Seytonegoro (1924-2008). Light wear to boards with a few minor scuffs. Binding sound and pages unmarked. Light rubbing and toning to monograph with fold through center; a few edits and corrections in pen, presumably in author's hand. Overall Very Good. Item #410627
Seytonegoro was a prominent Indonesian psychiatrist, but the typed article included here, presumably authored by him and unpublished as far as we could determine, shows his deep knowledge and appreciation of the batik art form. Not only does the author give succinct and detailed descriptions of the origin and meaning of different types of batik (geometric patterns, "Batiks which are forbidden," and how the level of craftsmanship and artistry will affect the magical strength of a certain design, for instance), but he provides insights into how Indonesia's geo-political situation influenced the art and the people who created it. Setyonegoro explains how "Eurasians" made hand-painted batik "with good colours and with specific designs from Europe," though the designs lacked symbolism. With the fall of the influence of the Kraton, European designs such as the "iris, aster... and butterflies" appear more often, while "from China they took the dragon and other mythological animals." The author continues with a history up through the 20th century, examining the impacts that foreign influence had on design and production, before ending with a sweet memory, "I still remember that my mother used to let the batikkers colour her faded batiks again. One light brown of Semen of hers was given a purple background and it became one of her favourite pieces which I still own today."
The book itself is scarce in retail and there are only five holdings found in OCLC. The accompanying typescript appears unpublished.
Price: $2,000.00