gayung

Gayung is a traditional water dipper used in Indonesia and parts of Southeast Asia. It consists of a shallow bowl attached to a handle, designed to scoop water from a tub, bucket, well, or river and to pour it with control. The basic form is simple and practical, but regional variations exist in size, shape, and decoration.

Materials and construction vary by locality. Wooden gayungs, especially carved from hardwood such as teak or jackfruit, are common in rural areas. Some versions are made from horn, bamboo, or metal. The bowl is typically curved and the handle long enough to allow one-handed use. Decorative patterns may appear on ceremonial or display pieces, while utilitarian versions emphasize function over form.

Usage and social context. The gayung is associated with daily life in homes without running water, used for washing hands and face, bathing, rinsing clothes, and other bath-related tasks. It is commonly employed with a pail or basin and can be part of traditional bathroom practices in villages and small towns. Even as plumbing and indoor bathrooms become widespread, the gayung remains in use in rural settings and is preserved as a cultural object or craft item.

Modern status and care. In contemporary settings, plastic or metal gayungs are more common, while wooden ones may be kept for craft, ceremonial, or decorative purposes. Proper maintenance includes drying after use and, for wooden types, occasional oiling to prevent cracking and mold.