Multicultural Aesthetics of the Ornaments of Puri Agung Karangasem

Abstract

This study examines the multicultural aesthetics of the ornaments of Puri Agung Karangasem, rooted in Balinese tradition and enriched by Indian, Javanese, Chinese and European elements and formal tendencies associated with Islamic art. This interpretative qualitative study used visual observation, documentation, interviews and a literature review. The objects include Singa Ambara Raja, karang sae bermahkota, dancing lions (singa menari), karang singa bersayap, patra olanda, patra cina, karang asti, karang goak, column-base ornaments and European floral-geometric motifs. The findings show that their aesthetic value is formed through unity, symmetry, rhythm, hierarchy, controlled complexity, clarity of line and proportional relationships between convex and concave surfaces. Cast-concrete production creates shallow relief, known as tapak sida, raised cawian lines, consistent dimensions and relatively smooth surfaces. Multicultural aesthetics does not diminish local identity; the Balinese systems of kekarangan and pepatraan provide the structure that unifies diverse visual sources and establishes the distinctive ornamental character of Puri Agung Karangasem.