Since its recognition as a world heritage site, euphoria around the use of batik in Indonesia has soared. Batik is no longer monopolised by Solo and Pekalongan. Almost every region is competing to produce its own distinctive batik. Lasem, often referred to as "Little China", also boasts a distinctive batik that is rarely found elsewhere. Besides being handmade, better known as "hand-drawn batik", hand-drawn batik from Lasem is also heavily influenced by Chinese culture. According to legend, centuries ago, Lasem was the first landing place for Chinese sailors and traders on the island of Java. With their arrival in the Lasem region, Chinese settlements flourished. Today, buildings with Chinese architecture can be found scattered throughout this town, which is part of the Rembang regency. These Chinese immigrants passed on their batik skills to the locals. To this day, the hand-drawn batik motifs from Lasem represent a mix of Javanese and Chinese cultural expressions.
A dutch photographer living in Jakarta, Indonesia since 1995. Specialized in landscapes and culture, mainly of Indonesia but also from other countries in Asia and elsewhere.
For examples you can have a look at my Instagram accounts: @angesvdl and @angesvdl.world..
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