Lontar

Lontar is a traditional form of writing and record-keeping using palm or other plant leaves, prevalent in Indonesia and Southeast Asia. The leaves are carefully prepared and inscribed with natural ink made from soot or charcoal, often using a sharp tool. These manuscripts can contain literature, religious texts, historical records, or scientific knowledge, serving as ancient repositories of culture and tradition. Lontar signifies both the material—palm-leaf manuscripts—and the art of their creation. Preserving these works offers valuable insights into the region’s history, beliefs, and artistry, maintaining a vital connection to its cultural heritage.