Sake Santema
Borobudur Temple: A Marvel of Ancient Architecture
Located in the Kedu Valley, in the heart of the island of Java, Indonesia, lies the magnificent Borobudur Temple. This Buddhist temple, dating back to the 9th century, is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Borobudur temple’s unique architectural, spiritual and historical significance makes it
Kassian Cephas: The First Indonesian Photographer
Often recognised as Indonesia’s first photographer, Kassian Cephas has played an important role in capturing the essence of Indonesian culture, landscape, and society through his lens.Born in 1845 in Yogyakarta, Java, Cephas’s impact on Indonesian photography extends beyond his individual work. He was the first Indonesian to become a professional photographer, laying a foundation for
Indies Gallery: Aviation History in Indonesia
Spanning over 17 thousand islands, Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelago, relies heavily on air travel for connectivity. With 683 airports facilitating over 500 thousand domestic flights annually and millions of travellers from abroad, aviation plays a vital role. Astonishingly, it’s just been exactly a century since the first European flight touched down in Indonesia. In
The Origins of Tajen in Indonesia: A Time-Honoured Tradition
Cockfighting, known locally as tajen or sabung ayam is not merely a pastime in Indonesia; it is a cultural institution deeply intertwined especially with Bali’s spiritual beliefs. Today, it is a familiar image of wicker baskets lining roads around Indonesia, housing roosters as they are toughened up with traffic sounds. In this article, Sake Santema
The Spice Islands of Indonesia: A Brief History Told Through Old Maps
Spices have been a cornerstone of global commerce for thousands of years, shaping the course of human history. From ancient societies to contemporary economies, spices have been instrumental in shaping diverse cultures and culinary traditions worldwide. The Allure of Spices: Why These Maps Exist From ancient times, aromatic plant products have been highly prized for
Fallen Angels: Indonesia’s Birds of Paradise
The bird of paradise, Cendrawasih in Bahasa Indonesia, holds a special place as a symbol of New Guinea and Indonesia, drawing visitors from around the globe to witness these majestic birds in their natural habitat on the second largest island in the world. However, for centuries, these birds remained as mysterious as the prized spices
History and Importance of Rice in Indonesia
Rice holds a special place in the heart of Indonesia. It is a staple in the Indonesian diet, making up half the calories in the average diet and contributes significantly to the livelihoods of millions of Indonesians. Indonesia is the third largest producer of rice in the world. From ancient agricultural practices to modern-day culinary
W.G. Hofker’s Artistic Odyssey and the Cultural Tapestry that Inspired Him
European painters have long been captivated by the beauty of Indonesia. The stunning landscapes and rich colorful heritage have served as an inspiration for many renowned artists throughout history. In this article, Sake Santema from Indies Gallery presents a few works from his collection by Willem G Hofker, whose life and work became deeply intertwined
A Historic Look into Indonesian Wedding Traditions, A Fusion of Cultures
In a rapidly modernising Indonesia, many old traditions and attire have gradually faded from daily life. However, wedding celebrations still show a vital link to the past, where old customs, some centuries old, remain a testament to Indonesia’s rich heritage, showcasing the diverse influences that have shaped the nation’s identity. In this article, Sake Santema
The Art of Decorating with Antique Maps and Prints
In an era mostly dominated by mass-produced and generic decor, antique maps and prints have stood the test of time. While for centuries published in books and atlases used mainly for science and educational purposes, they now seamlessly blend into a variety of interior design styles, from traditional to contemporary. A vintage world map can
Indonesian Fruits Through the Eyes of Early Explorers and Botanists
Indonesia is known for its vibrant markets which boast a rich variety of fruits, or ‘buah’. From luscious mangosteens to spiky durian, fruits play an important part in Indonesian cuisine. While Indonesians have cherished these delights for centuries, it was the first European explorers and botanists who introduced these exotic fruits to the rest of
Early Travels to the ‘Dutch East Indies’
Today’s travellers may feel envious of those who visited Bali back when it was ‘untouched’, but do not realise the difficulty of not only getting to the island but also the challenges once they arrived. Sake Santema, owner of antiques dealer Indies Gallery, explores early travels to Indonesia and Bali, complemented by prints and images
A Historic Look at the Majestic Prambanan Temple in Java
Indonesia is a country rich in history and culture, with many ancient temples scattered throughout the archipelago. One of them is the majestic Prambanan temple located in Central Java, which is considered one of the most important Hindu temples in Southeast Asia. The complex is a testament to the ancient Javanese civilisation, and is a
