Konflik simbolik: batik Yogyakarta masa Sultan Hamengkubuwana VIII (1921-1939)

Abstract

This paper discusses the history of batik, especially the patterns" symbols of the batik of the Yogyakarta palace during the time of Sultan Hamengkubuwana VIII (1921-1939). In 1927 Sultan Hamengkubuwana VIII launched the palace"s note (rijksblaad), Pranatan Dalem Bab Jenenge Panganggo Keprabon Ing Keraton Nagari Yogyakarta, which was about the limited use of certain batik"s patterns for the Yogyakarta royal family only. Batik is an important artifact of the Yogyakarta palace which carries symbols that explain the status of the wearer and the meaning behind it. The purpose of this paper is to examine the patterns of the palace batik of Yogyakarta due to their inherent symbols. The methodology applied in this paper is descriptive narrative in the context of history. The patterns on the palace batik with their symbols often stimulated conflicts with the Dutch colonial authorities, butunder the leadership of Sultan Hamengkubuwana VIII, they could be uplifted as the palace"s cultural object, internally more detailed, and even could strengthen the position of the Yogyakarta Palace.