Seni Kerajinan Pribumi di Hindia Belanda

This extensive five-volume work, originally published in Dutch in 1912 and recently translated into Indonesian (2017), stands as a monumental documentation of the indigenous arts and crafts of the Dutch East Indies. Authored by ethnographer and colonial civil servant J.E. Jasper (1874-1945) and artist Mas Pirngadie (1865-1936), the series was commissioned by the colonial government to meticulously record the diverse artistic traditions across the archipelago.

Spanning over 1,900 pages, the collection is divided thematically: Volume I and II focus on weaving, Volume III on batik, Volume IV details gold and silver crafts, and Volume V explores base metal crafts. Beyond showcasing a wide array of artisanal products, the books provide rich contextual information, including the local materials used, the intricate techniques employed, the specialized tools utilized, and relevant trade data associated with these crafts.

Jasper and Pirngadie's approach, grounded in ethnographic observation, extends beyond mere description. They keenly explore the deep connections between the crafting activities and their products within the broader framework of local customs and traditions. The volumes meticulously document the various terms of use and even taboos associated with specific crafts, offering a profound understanding of their cultural significance. Furthermore, the books contain hundreds of local terms related to the craft practices, encompassing everything from the names of raw materials and tools to the specific work methods and the resulting finished goods.

Publication Details:

• Authors: J.E. Jasper & Mas Pirngadie
• Publisher: Dewan Kerajinan Nasional (2017)
• Language: Indonesian
• Format: Softcover with slipcase
• Page Count: 420 pages (Volume I), 422 pages (Volume II), 314 pages (Volume III), 310 pages (Volume IV), 301 pages (Volume V)
• Dimensions: 22 x 27 cm

Condition:

• Book: New
• Dust Jacket: No dust jacket was issued for this title