For the Javanese, batik is more than just shirts and sarung, The patterns and motifs express their various local identities; they are statements of Javanese life and philosophy. This book examines the role of batik within the social and cultural context of modern Indonesia and Singapore, and exposes the reader to the rich plethora of styles in both classical and contemporary batik. It also provides an insight into Indonesian batik craftsmen, and pays tribute to their technical skills and artistry.