This rare ceremonial breastcloth (kemben), originating from the royal court of Surakarta, Java, dates to the mid-20th century (1930–1950). Specifically intended for girls of the royal family, this piece features a central plain red silk applique diamond with a scalloped outline—a feature historically exclusive to the wives and close relatives of the Sultan. The surrounding field is decorated with the parang suli motif, a refined Hindu-Javanese batik pattern characterized by its restrained form and tiny triple-dot details.

The textile showcases exceptional craftsmanship through its multi-layered borders: an inner border of cream mounds with three-leafed sprigs and an outer blue border featuring cream flowers in the tritik pattern. The batik was created using high-grade cotton and premium natural dyes; the indigo and soga (golden brown) hues remain remarkably rich and vivid despite soga's typical sensitivity to light. The imported red silk center retains a soft cranberry hue and a fine, glistening sheen. Measuring 41 inches by 18 inches (104 cm x 46 cm), the cloth is in perfect condition and appears hardly worn.

‍