kawung

Kawung is one of the oldest and most recognizable batik motifs from Java, Indonesia. The name kawung is tied to the pattern’s traditional association with the cross-section of the areca palm fruit, and the design has long been linked to the early batik repertoire of the Javanese courts.

The motif consists of four lobed, circular shapes arranged in a symmetrical grid, creating a diamond or four-petal appearance with a central circular nucleus. In its most common form, the kawung element is repeated to form a continuous geometric pattern across fabric, often rendered in white or light tones against a contrasting background, or in negative relief on dyed cloth.

Cultural significance in batik is linked to ideas of purity, balance, and spiritual symbolism, including representation of the four cardinal directions. It has been associated with refinement and elegance in traditional Javanese dress, particularly for ceremonial or formal occasions.

In modern times, kawung remains a staple in both traditional and contemporary batik productions. It is widely used in clothing such as sarongs, dresses, and suits, as well as in decorative textiles and design applications. While rooted in Indonesian textile heritage, kawung has also influenced batik-inspired patterns in regional fashion and global textile design, maintaining its status as a iconic symbol of classical batik.