Divergent Destinies of Tradition – Pottery Heritage in Melikan and Dolon, Central Java

SHIUNG Chung-ching1*, Mahirta2, and LEE You-ru3

In modern industrial society, traditional pottery is readily categorized as cultural heritage; however, public and governmental recognition varies significantly across different traditions. This study examines the contrasting trajectories of two potting villages in Klaten, Central Java: Melikan and Dolon. While Melikan thrives – bolstered by its association with the legendary saint Sunan Bayat and its unique oblique wheel technique, Dolon’s tradition is rapidly declining. Despite Dolon’s "traditional" paddle-and-anvil methods and open-air firing, its lack of public attention has left it marginalised. This highlights a critical need for targeted preservation policies to save Dolon’s endangered craft.