Zent Prozent @ Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Location: Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Artists: Zent Prozent
Address: Kampung Ngadinegaran
Year: 2023

Photo Credits: Zent Prozent

“One of my latest murals that was part of AMUK 1812 – Mural Kampung “Lengah Sejarah”.
Raffles embarked on a visit to Yogyakarta and various other palaces in Java. During his visit, the strong presence of Kasunanan Surakarta and Mangkunegaran cast a shadow that significantly influenced the atmosphere. As the first official meeting between Raffles and the Sultan unfolded in the throne room of the Wisma Residen, tensions and unease continued to escalate.
At that moment, the Sultan surprised everyone by refusing to sit in the chair that had been prepared for him. Instead, he firmly insisted on being seated on his own personal silver throne. Beneath this silver throne, a servant promptly placed a small wooden chair (dingklik) to elevate the Sultan’s seat, positioning him higher than Raffles.
Tensions escalated further when an aide to Raffles attempted to shift the small wooden chair (dingklik) with his foot. Several of the Sultan’s followers quickly drew their keris, traditional Javanese daggers symbolizing pride and honor. The atmosphere grew increasingly tense, and it seemed that physical conflict could erupt at any moment.
However, at this critical juncture, some British officers accompanying Raffles decided to enter the crowded room, creating a physical barrier that could hinder the possibility of a deadly confrontation. Their presence prevented the escalation of a potentially fatal conflict.
Fortunately, in this highly tense moment, the Crown Prince stepped forward between Raffles and his father, the Sultan. The decisive action of the Crown Prince brought both parties to an awareness of the looming danger.”
Zent Prozent

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