JARIK KROKOTAN SOGAN

Ibu Istikomah 
Born 1971, Batang, Indonesia

JARIK KROKOTAN (2010)
100% Cotton, synthetic dyes
Hand-drawn wax resist on machine-woven cotton
230 x 100cm

A striking krokotan jarik worked in rich tones, its purslane motif is said to be imbued with the healing and protective qualities of the plant that inspired it.

This design is intricately detailed with the leaves of Portulaca oleracea — the krokot plant, a species of purslane known for its many healing properties in traditional Javanese medicine, or jamu. Many designs are inspired by native plants and vegetation with healing and nourishing qualities, imbuing the batik with protective properties that promote the prosperity and good health of the wearer.

The motif is punctuated by abstracted creatures connected along a vine, with feathery wings that suggest birds or insects — forms that dissolve into the design, adding a layer of mystery to the cloth. This reflects the Sufi Islamic tradition of not depicting whole living creatures unless one is also able to grant them a soul.

Sogan refers to the rich brown colour in the background, traditionally derived from plant materials indigenous to Java. Ibu Istikomah worked on this piece over a three-month period, across three waxing and dyeing stages to achieve each of the three colours. She chose the design because it is intricate and detailed when viewed up close, but most impressive and striking when viewed from afar.

Ibu Istikomah

Born and raised in Batang, on the north coast of Central Java, Ibu Istikomah is an accomplished batik artist and local trader.