The island of Madura is located east of Java. It is where salt and corn are produced, where the relatives of the Javanese royalty live in the Sumenep Kraton or palace and best of all where the colorful, vibrant and brave batik print fabric is made.
Unlike it's counterpart in Java, the Madurese have more daring experiment with pattern and color. They absorb the best influence from Arab and Chinese traders and there you have it. And the saying on the street is even the poorest batik producer won't use cheap coloring. They use high quality indigo or purple mix. And there you have it, simply exquisite batik.
My cousin sent me these beautiful pictures. In Jakarta it was rare and difficult to find Madurese batik, it explains why it is so expensive. If you're lucky to meet someone who sell them or find them at the stores, expect to pay Rp 300,000 (US $ 30) for the lowest quality of fabric.
