An Analysis on Characteristics of Ancient Indonesian Textiles (II) - Focus on the Techniques and the Patterns of the 'Sacred Cloths' -

Abstract

The ancient ‘sacred cloths’ of Indonesia have diverse characteristics. The purpose of this study is to analyze the characteristics of ancient Indonesian textiles, focusing on ‘sacred cloths.’ The re- search is divided into two parts. The first part analyzes the creation period, religious importance, region where the cloths are found, and color of the ‘sacred cloths.’ The second part focuses on the textile-making techniques and the ritual patterns of the ‘sacred cloths.’ This research is the second paper. This research analyzes 225 Indonesian sacred cloth examples chosen for their reli- gious function in ceremony, and reviews 10 books and 8 research papers. Field research was done in the Museum of Bali, the Indonesian Museum of Textiles, and nine weaving production houses in eastern Bali. Indonesian sacred cloths express their cultural philosophy and function through production techniques, colors, techniques, and visual patterns. The ‘sacred cloth’-making techniques are classified as Batik, Prada, and Ikat. The regions that contribute to the textile pro- duction determine what patterns show up on the cloths. Sumatran patterns are philosophical, lav- ish, and prestigious. Bornean patterns are barbaric and prestigious. Balinese patterns are com- plex, decorative, warm, festive, calm, and aristocratic. Javanese patterns are symbolic and repetitive. Celebes patterns are artistic and simple. Nusa Tenggara patterns are symbolic and narrative. The forms shown on the textiles, whether geometric, human and animal, natural ob- jects, or abstract patterns, determine how to classify the varied patterns. As a result, ancient Indonesian sacred cloths characteristics portray Indonesian identity as Bhinneka Tunggal Ika(Unity in Diversity). Key