Central Java has a very thick Javanese cultural diversity. This is because this area was previously incorporated in the Islamic Mataram Kingdom as the center of Javanese civilization. Therefore, it is not surprising that Central Java has inspired many other areas in terms of culture, one of which is traditional clothing. The traditional clothes are also very diverse. But this time, let’s talk about Beskap, Sahabat Javanologi!
Beskap is adapted from Dutch suits and comes from the word beschaafd which means civilized or cultured. Beskap is known in four types, including Jogja Style Beskap, Landung Beskap, Kulon Style Beskap, and Solo Style Beskap.
The color of beskap cloth that is often used is black with a simple design and straight collar without creases, and the model is not symmetrical. Beskap is often used as a typical outfit during Javanese traditional weddings and is generally equipped with stagen, blangkon, jarik and kris. So what about the history?
History of Beskap
KGPAA Mangkunegara IV intends to meet the king at Langenharjo Pesanggrahan which is located in Langenharjo Village, Grogol District, Sukoharjo Regency, Central Java Province.
Because they do not appear before the king at the Keraton, those who should wear “sikepan” or clothes similar to a closed suit until the neck and back are curved, with other considerations, should not have to wear “sikepan”.
So KGPAA Mangkunegara had the idea to change western suits or skirts into Javanese-style clothes.
One day, PB IX along with the Empress and the sentanas held a special event at the Langenharjo Pesanggrahan. So from the incident that took place in the Langeharjo Pesanggrahan, the type of beskap was given the name Langenharjan beskap.
Beskap has a meaning that is full of piwulang sinandhi life, a teaching implicit in Javanese philosophy. The buttons symbolize that actions taken must be carefully considered and not to the detriment of others. The cloth belt symbolizes perseverance to work. The belt called ubed also symbolizes that humans must always be ubed, diligent and persistent. Jarik has a meaning that humans should not be jealous.
Author: Renata Listya K. W
Source:
https://www.cnnindonesia.com/gaya-hidup/20200505100045-277-500108/beskap-baju-adat-jawa-yang-sering-dipakai-didi-kempot.
https://style.tribunnews.com/2019/08/01/ini-sejarah-dan-asal-usul-baju-beskap-yang-sering-dipakai-oleh-didi-kempot-saat-manggung.
https://www.detik.com/edu/detikpedia/d-6248032/jenis-baju-adat-jawa-tengah-ada-kebaya-dan-beskap
