A captivating story of strength and roles, a legacy that inspires across generations

The Yogyakarta Palace proudly presents its much-anticipated year-end exhibition, Parama Iswari: Mahasakti Keraton Yogyakarta. This extraordinary showcase invites visitors to reflect on the vital roles of women in the palace, highlighting their strength, grace, and significant contributions to culture and history, from traditional roots to modern expressions.

The Meaning of Parama Iswari 
The term Parama Iswari combines Parama, meaning supreme or exceptional, with Iswari, signifying foremost woman. Together, it represents the idea of women who are extraordinary in every sense. The exhibition weaves the narrative of Parameswari: Resilient and Charismatic Women, presenting collections and installations that tell the evolving story of palace women across generations.

Exhibition Dates and Details
Running from October 6, 2024, to January 26, 2025, the exhibition is hosted at the Kedhaton Complex within the Yogyakarta Palace. Visitors can explore it daily from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM WIB, with tickets priced at Rp15,000 for domestic visitors and Rp25,000 for international guests.

Nine Chapters of Regal Journeys
The exhibition unfolds in nine immersive chapters, starting with a poignant portrayal of women’s suppression during colonial times. Among the highlights is the inspiring story of GKR Kadipaten, a queen renowned for her prowess in martial arts and gamelan music. The historic Kanjeng Nyai Marikangen gamelan, crafted during Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono II’s reign, symbolizes women’s invaluable contributions to the arts.

Another spotlight is on GKR Sultan, a skilled diplomat who orchestrated the return of Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono II from exile in Saparua. GKR Kencana, in turn, embodies political strength, represented through the symbolic kacu abrit displayed at Gedhong Sarang Baya. The exhibition also explores the financial acumen of GKR Ageng and GKR Kencana, who ensured the palace’s economic stability with wisdom and precision.

Elegance in Fashion, Art, and Diplomacy
Beyond political and economic roles, palace women have left an indelible mark in the realms of art and fashion. GKR Kencana, the consort of Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono VI, played a pivotal role in advancing the palace’s batik and jewelry traditions. The daughters of the palace also achieved distinction, with some marrying prominent figures like Susuhunan Paku Buwono X and Adipati Mangkunegoro VII.

The exhibition’s final segment celebrates GKR Hemas, consort of Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, showcasing her multifaceted roles as a Consort, Mother, Politician, and Social Activist through the Reksa Diah Utami initiative. Featured artifacts include royal coronation attire, the prestigious Bintang Mahaputera Utama medal, and batik designs personally crafted by Ibu Win.

A Journey of Meaningful Reflections
More than a display of art and culture, the Parama Iswari exhibition delivers a powerful narrative of courage, intelligence, and elegance. Notable installations, such as frames and mirrors, encourage visitors to reflect on the challenges faced by women in the past and their relentless pursuit of progress.

For all who attend, this exhibition offers an enriching experience that illuminates the history and enduring contributions of Yogyakarta’s palace women—figures whose legacies continue to inspire across generations.

photo source : instagram.com/andinieerr

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