The people of Kanekes (also known as Baduy) in the hinterland of Banten Province believe that weaving is a form of Kanekes women’s obedience towards the hereditary tradition. The form of obedience is unique. In addition, the product has a strong local wisdom value, very special that it becomes the character and the differentiator for Kanekes. 

The Kanekes weaving is believed to reveal the aesthetics of nature around the Kendeng Mountains. The patterns depict the attitude towards life and customs, still preserved as the ancestral heritage. In addition, the fabric they produce also has a decoration that portrays their philosophy of life. 

For Kanekes Luar / Baduy Luar (Outer Kanekes / Outer Baduy), the woven fabric they produce will be dominated by black and dark blue as familiar colors. Meanwhile, for the people of Kanekes Dalam (Inner Kanekes), the woven fabric they produce will be dominated by white. It is believed to have a sacred meaning and a rule that hasn’t been influenced by an outside culture. 

Images: The Coverage of the Spice Routes Editorial Team