ANGŚUKAYANA: The Revival of Batik Mangkunegaran

The Batik Angśukayana Exhibition took place from October 29 to November 18, 2023, at Balai Sisworini. The exhibition showcased the rich history of Mangkunegaran batik, portraying its enduring journey through time. Several members of the Mangkunegaran royal family participated in the Angśukayana Fashion Show, commencing with a performance by Gusti Raden Ajeng Ancillasura Marina Sudjiwo.

The series of activities commenced with the Royal Heritage Dinner, an opening ceremony that brought forth the grandeur of Mangkunegaran. The dinner, set amidst the garden, treated guests to a feast of culinary heritage from the royal family of Mangkunegaran. This experience was enhanced by the aesthetic arrangement of Pracima Tuin, the diverse fragrance of flowers, and the nostalgic gamelan music of Mangkunegaran

The exhibited garments reflected the distinctive motifs of Mangkunegaran batik, such as Candi Mulya, Udan Liris Pethak, Kukila Gringsing Latar Bledhag, and Ukel. These collections originated from Sedherek Dalem and Sentana Mangkunegaran. The fashion show also showcased the beauty of batik from Iwan Tirta Private Collection, drawing inspiration from Pracima Tuin’s garden with captivating floral motifs.

The exhibition not only highlighted Mangkunegaran batik but also paid homage to dedicated artists. Figures like Gusti Kanjeng Putri Mangkoenagoro VIII, K.R.Ay. Praptini Patraningrat, and Nyi Tumenggung Mardusari played crucial roles in Mangkunegaran’s batik history. Motifs such as Semen Wijayakusuma, Parang Kumudawati, Sari Ngrembaka, and Gabah Sinawur reflected their rich creativity.

During the Royal Heritage Dinner opening, Kanjeng Gusti Pangeran Adipati Arya Mangkoenagoro X expressed his hope that Angśukayana would encourage the community to appreciate, preserve, and develop batik culture as a shared identity and heritage. Thus, Angśukayana marks the beginning of revitalizing Mangkunegaran’s cultural legacy.