Batik: Indonesia's ancient art of wax-resist dyeing

Batik is an ancient Indonesian textile art where artisans use molten wax to create intricate patterns on fabric. This wax acts as a resist, preventing dye from coloring specific areas. Originating on Java by the 8th or 9th century, this technique allows for complex, layered designs using tools like the canting for fine lines or cap stamps for bolder motifs.