Antique Batik Kemben from North Coast Java

Description

This is a fine batik "kemben" (breast cloth) most likely made on the North Coast of Java in the 1950-1960's.  The piece is completely hand-drawn (tulis) batik using aniline dyes and made with what may be imported European high count cotton fabric.  Kemben's are typically worn around a woman's torso by palace ladies and classical dancers in the Javanese courts.  However, this piece was dyed using bright, modern colors so it is uncertain just who used this particular piece and for what purpose.  It looks very much like a Straits Chinese (Peranakan) sarong so it may have been made by either a Chinese or Arab batik workshop.  The batik drawing is of high quality and the condition is very good with no holes or tears.
The dimensions are: 21x 104 inches.