Museum di Tengah Kebun

“A secret garden in the heart of Jakarta?” a visitor might whisper, intrigued by the unassuming entrance to Museum di Tengah Kebun. Museum di Tengah Kebun is more than just a museum. It’s a journey through time, a carefully curated collection of art and history nestled within a lush, 3,500-square-meter garden in the Kemang district of South Jakarta. This hidden gem, once the private residence of Indonesian advertising pioneer Sjahrial Djalil, opened its doors to the public, offering a glimpse into a world of fascinating artifacts. Museum di Tengah Kebun houses approximately 4,000 pieces, spanning Indonesian and international history and art. In 2013, it was recognized as the Best Private Museum at the Museum Awards. The museum’s charm lies in its unique presentation. Over 2,414 items are displayed unconventionally, scattered throughout the rooms, tucked into corners, placed on the floors, and even gracing the outdoor garden and restrooms. The museum building itself is a piece of history. Constructed in 1980, it incorporates remnants of Jakarta’s past. The walls are built with 65,000 bricks salvaged from an old VOC building and another 15,000 from a 19th-century meteorological building. Even the door hinges have a story, originating from the women’s prison in Bukit Duri, a vestige of the 18th-century Meester Cornelis building. The museum’s 17 rooms are named after their dominant collections. For example, the Buddha Room houses an array of Buddha statues from various countries, while the Dewi Sri Room showcases ancient kitchenware, statues, and jars. One of the most peculiar spaces is the Singa Garuda Room, a 9×11 meter bathroom featuring a Qing Dynasty lounge chair, a 19th-century French oil lamp, and a mahogany bench once belonging to King George II. Within Museum di Tengah Kebun’s diverse collection are several standout pieces. A Ganesha statue from 9th-century Central Java sits prominently in the garden. A Javanese gamelan kenong from the late 1800s adds a musical note to the atmosphere. There’s even a set of drinking cases used by Napoleon Bonaparte and an assortment of walking sticks from Javanese and European royalty. Museum di Tengah Kebun’s remarkable collection also includes a Bodhisatwa Wajrapani statue and artifacts from Torajan graves. This unique museum provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city, offering a glimpse into the past and a moment of reflection amidst the greenery. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the greatest treasures are found not in grand displays but hidden amongst the leaves, whispering stories of times gone by.