Traditional Batik Copper Chops - Javanese Motif J

Batik Chops – (Tjap traditional spelling, Indonesian spelling Cap, but English pronunciation Chop) are traditionally used to produce batik. These copper tools are dipped in hot beeswax and then block printed onto fabric with a wax resist print, before the fabric pieces are dipped in dye. This process is repeated hundreds of times. Batik fabric has a long and royal tradition, and these chops are part of that – yet each are works of art in themselves. The Javanese are the great masters of batik making, but also of the art of crafting the glorious tools. The chops are made by specialized craftsmen "tukang membuat cap", who work with copper which is cut, bent, fitted and welded to match the desired design. Meticulously crafted, these chops take from a few days (for the smallest) to 3 weeks (for largest) to make by hand. The traditional motifs or patterns have specific meanings and are used to print fabric for specific ceremonial occasions in Java and are most likely from 25 – 50 years old