An Indonesian batik technique made up of four stylised ovals (a cross-section of the aren-palm fruit) placed at 90º angles in a circle, creating a repeated, geometric, kaleidoscope-like pattern. Kawung was one of the carefully guarded forbidden design worn by Javanese royalty.
Throughout the Indonesian archipelago particularly, batiks were significant beyond aesthetic pleasure, associated with certain social classes, ritual ceremonies and culturally enshrining religious beliefs.
Though these exquisite, intricate patterns have been popularised, they still remain the prerogative of court members.