The archipelago of Indonesia is home to an environment enriched in biodiversity and beauty. Indonesia boasts of extensive coral reefs, over one hundred and fifty sharks species, over six thousand species of orchids, the largest mangroves in the world, Komodos, the world’s largest flower as well as the world’s longest snake. However the wonders of Indonesia does not cease to surprise outside the environment, for, in terms of the arts and culture, Indonesia’s diverse communities have given rise to immense vibrancy in the arts. When in Indonesia, the best place to witness this myriad of styles is the Fine Art and Ceramic Museum.
Located in Jakarta, Indonesia, the Fine Art and Ceramic Museum exhibits all the traditional and unique arts of Indonesia and is open to tourists and local visitors. The building that houses the museum also has an intriguing history of its own for it was initially used as the Court of Justice from 1870 onwards. However, subsequent to Japanese occupation of the country, it was used by KNIL i.e. the Royal Netherlands East Indies Army and in this light, with the conclusion of the war, the building was utilised as a military dormitory, the Mayor’s Office and finally, since the 20th of August 1976, it is used to house the Fine Art and Ceramic Museum.
The museum exhibits a series of time specific art collections ranging from the Raden Saleh Era, the Japanese Occupation Period, and the Birth of Realism to the Contemporary Art Room, all of which houses various paintings depicting historic events or artistic styles as well as ceramics that originated from not only Indonesia but other countries such as China, Vietnam and Japan.
For lovers of the arts as well as even history, this complex is an ideal attraction and is a convenient place to visit if you are staying at a hotel in Jakarta. Other attractions in the city include the National Monument, the Jakarta Cathedral and the Ragunan Zoo, all of which can be conveniently accessed by those residing at a Jakarta hotel belonging to a reputed chain of hotels: the Millennium Hotel Sirih Jakarta.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
