Coastal Batik: Lasem

Lasem Batik History closely related to the arrival of Admiral Cheng Ho in the year 1413. Lasem Chronicle written by Mpu Santri Badra in 1401 Saka (1479 AD,) and rewritten by R Panji Kamzah (1858) mention, the ship crew of Dhang Puhawang Tzeng Ho from Zhong Guo State, Bi Nang Un and his wife, Na Li Ni, chose to live in Bonang after seeing the natural beauty of Java.

In place of this new habitation, Na Li Ni started to make oriental batik, especially phoenix, dragon, chrysanthemums, latticework motifs. Chicken blood red color (dark red) typical of Chinese dominate batik color. This motif is characteristic of Lasem Batik unique.

Lasem Batik uniqueness got an important place in world trade. Inter-island trader with the ship and then send Lasem Batik throughout the archipelago. Even the early nineteenth century Lasem Batik could be exported to Thailand and Suriname. Lasem Batik entering heyday.

Lasem Batik booming make crafters become more creative. New motifs like Latohan, Gunung Ringgit, or Kricakan (broken stone) emerging. Syahdan, crafters create Kricakan motifs inspired by the suffering of the people because when it comes to breaking big rocks to make the highway heading by Daendels.

Lasem Batik continue incised gold records until late termination of colonial rule. Lasem Batik entrepreneurs who come from the Tionghoa got a special place in the indigenous population because a lot of job opportunities.

Heyday of batik, which became an icon of cultural assimilation of Java and China began to recede in the 1950s. The main cause of deterioration is due to Lasem Batik pressured by the proliferation batik in various regions. In addition, also due to political conditions that marginalize ethnic Chinese who is the ruler Lasem Batik trade.

According to data of Rembang Economic Development Forum (Fedep), in the 1950s there were about 140 entrepreneurs Lasem Batik. In the 1970s the number dropped to half. Peak in the 1980s Lasem Batik entrepreneur only reached seven people are active. Further development of Lasem Batik continue to experience ups and downs.

Source:http://lasembatikart.com/?p=5