SARONG RELAWATI SISIK

Ibu Nur Mauidhoh 
Born 1988, Batang, Indonesia

SARONG RELAWATI SISIK 2025
100% Cotton, synthetic dyes
Hand-drawn wax resist on machine-woven cotton
218*114cm

Hidden creatures abound in this exquisite Relawati sarong — look closely at its flowers... they might look back.

This sarong-length hip wrapper exemplifies the feminine Relawati style, its flowing floral motifs set against a background of sisik — a fine, overlapping scale motif in gorgeously subdued terracotta tones.

The artist plays with visual illusion, hiding abstracted creatures amongst flowers, leaves and vines. Look closely and you will find forms suggestive of phoenix-like birds, butterflies and aquatic life — creatures of another sphere, neither fully of land nor water. This practice of samaran (camouflage or abstraction) respects the Sufi Islamic belief that it is unwise to depict a whole living creature unless one is also able to grant it a soul.

The kepala (head panel) features a bouquet motif with a mesmerising fill of intricate unfurling vines.

Around the edge of the cloth, abstracted shrimp-like creatures — rendered in the botanical samaran style — form a border that encircles and protects the wearer.

Ibu Nur Mauidhoh

Born and raised in Batang, Ibu Nur Mauidoh (Ibu Idhoh) has been creating batik since the age of thirteen, learning the artform as a tradition passed down through the generations. She is drawn to complex, detailed and fluid motifs that leave room for creative freedom and innovation — materos and relawati with intricate fills among her favourites. A mother of three, Ibu Idhoh creates batik because it brings her a deep sense of accomplishment, self-worth and contentment.