Multiculturalism of Mythological Images in Batik Motifs

Abstract

Cirebon is a city on the north coast of Java which had one of the largest ports in the archipelago in the 1300s. This affected the number of immigrants, from traders, merchants, and so on, which led to acculturation of culture, beliefs, and descent in Cirebon City. One form of cultural acculturation is found in the Keraton Kanoman in Cirebon in the form of a symbol of Paksi Naga Liman. Like another city on the north coast of Java, Semarang, which is also rich in cultural acculturation is reflected in the mascot form of a mythological creature, Warak Ngendog. From the two forms of mythological creatures, there are similarities in the form of the concepts of hybridity and multiculturalism. Paksi Naga Liman and Warak Ngendog as symbols of cultural acculturation are also found in the decorative motifs of Cirebon batik and Semarang batik. The depiction of the form of the two mythological animals is based on aesthetic aspects and elements of the spirituality of the community's life. This research uses qualitative methods through historical literature studies and folklore studies. This research aims to examine and compare the aesthetic and design elements in the form of ornaments, colors, and the philosophical background of the creation of the Paksi Naga Liman and Warak Ngendog motifs as mythological creatures. The results of this research will then be used as a guideline for the creation and development of decorative styles in batik motifs that represent fictional four-legged mythological creatures that are enigmatic, unique, aesthetic, and expressive because there are acculturation of Javanese, Arabic, Hinduism, and Chinese cultures as a reflection of messages of spirituality and values harmony of multicultural society.