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This batik cotton hipcloth, hand-drawn in Garut, West Java, showcases an S-shaped flowering creeper design, emphasizing graceful curves, heart-shaped leaves, and bright flowers against a deep brown-black backdrop. The color composition, featuring brilliant vermillion and blue, harks back to older north coast batiks. Adorned with birds flying between the creepers, wide borders with cone-shaped flower bunches, and rows of meanders in different colors, this piece exudes luxurious decoration. The distinctively creamy yellow background, known as gumading in Garut batiks, lends it a vibrant glow, characteristic of the region's style.
This cloth reflects Garut's taste through its movement, stronger colors, and wider-arching forms, influenced by the older style of Javanese north coast batik. The design's lack of a dominant axis allows it to be appreciated from any angle. The creeping vine, termed lung-lungan, and its scattered blossoms symbolize ritualistic elements. The color combination—red, blue, black, and cream—represents an elaborate traditional north coast style.
Preserved meticulously, this hipcloth remains in excellent condition, with only one tiny stain visible. There are no holes or tears, and the cotton retains its freshness despite age, with clear, glowing, and vivid colors. Measuring 94 inches (239 cm) by 42 inches (107 cm), this piece stands as an exceptionally elegant and lively representation of old batik artistry.