TEMPO.CO, Jayapura - Tree bark painting is one of the most wanted souvenirs in Jayapura regency. The painting contains traditional motives scratched on the bark of a ficus tree—the locals call it ‘Khobouw’ tree.
The enchanted painting is made in Asei Besar village, Jayapura regency, Papua, with price tags ranging from Rp50,000 to millions of rupiah, depending on the size and motives.
“The tradition to paint on a tree bark begins in the 17th century. It was once forgotten in the tides of time,” said a painter in Asei Besar, Corry Ohee. However, in 1975, anthropologists Arnold Ap and Danielo Constantino Ayamiseba revived the tradition, which lives on until now.
Corry added that several bark paintings are neatly stored at some European Museums. European culture expert Professor Jac Hoogerbruge has collected pictures of the paintings and made a book of the bark paintings.
The bark paintings usually feature motives of natural resources, local content, and the environment. “Each painting carries a meaning of sustainability,” he said. Regardless, Corry said that the most common motive is the Yoniki motive, the King’s insignia in Sentani.
CUNDING LEVI