Rattan as a Craft Material of Community on the North Coast of Java (Rattan Craft Study in Teluk Wetan Jepara)

Abstract

Rattan was the main raw material used in rattan craft in Teluk Wetan Jepara. This research uses historical methods namely heuristic, criticism, and interpretation. The results of this study show that the rattan could be made into various craft products such as parcel baskets, bags, chairs, tables, and etc. Rattan craft in Teluk Wetan involved local workers, craftsmen, and entrepreneurs. The products had been marketed on Java, out of Java island, Europe and America. The craft development was around 1972 and still developed rapidly to this day. Rattan craft was soft skills owned by Teluk Wetan community and had an impact on the local economy. The craft existence was supported by workers, craftsmen, and entrepreneurs, both who had small and large scale. The existence of workers, craftsmen, and entrepreneurs encouraged the craft to live and develop. The existence of rattan craft made the community's economic life of Teluk Wetan became dynamic as well as made this region became a craft center that recognized locally, regionally and nationally.