Techniques, forms and motifs of Malay woodcarving
Early 19th century Patani woodcarved panel with calligraphy from a royal ship (Muzium Seni Asia collection).
The forms and motifs long seen in Malay woodcarving are influenced by nature—flora, the environment, natural elements and the cosmos—and the Islamic religion. While some of the early pre-Islamic themes and motifs are still evident today, they are now only manifested in stylized or abstract form. Many of the motifs used by the Malays have symbolic meaning and, traditionally, carving ornamental embellishments on houses and perahu (boats) were not simply for aesthetic appeal, but also to protect homes and livelihoods from evil and the elements.
- Information in the full article includes
- Techniques employed
- Motifs and Malay beliefs
- Palaces
- Indigenous wooden architecture