Kisah Kain Tapis Lampung

Summary

The transcript delves into the rich cultural heritage of Sumatera and Lampung, focusing on the history and significance of 'tapis', an intricate fabric art that has been passed down through generations. It explores the ancient origins of tapis, its evolution under various cultural influences, and the craftsmanship of creating gold-threaded textiles. The video highlights efforts to preserve this tradition in Lampung and the support from local communities and government institutions to revitalize the art. The importance of maintaining tapis as part of Indonesia's cultural identity is emphasized, stressing its historical and artistic value.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sumatra is historically referred to as both 'Bumi Andalas' and 'Suwarnadwipa', meaning 'Island of Gold'.
• 😀 The gold thread used in traditional Sumatra fabrics like songket originally came from other regions, not Sumatra itself.
• 😀 Sriwijaya, an ancient kingdom, imported gold from Syam to create luxurious fabrics such as songket.
• 😀 Lampung, a region in Sumatra, is known for its unique woven fabric, called 'tapis', which often features gold thread.
• 😀 Tapis fabric has historical significance, with motifs originating from ancient animistic and religious beliefs, such as boats symbolizing life after death.
• 😀 Tapis motifs, including animal figures, reflect the animistic and Hindu-Buddhist influences on the Lampungese culture.
• 😀 The preservation and innovation of tapis have become integral to Lampung's cultural identity.
• 😀 In the 1980s, the Kampung Tapis area began revitalizing the tapis tradition, with local efforts to sustain and promote the craft.
• 😀 Young people in Lampung are now encouraged to learn the art of tapis weaving as it becomes both a cultural and economic asset.
• 😀 Tapis has the potential to be recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of Indonesia, reinforcing the region's unique cultural contributions.

Q & A

What is the significance of Sumatera in the context of the script?

Sumatera is described as a historically rich region, referred to as 'Suwarnadwipa' meaning 'Island of Gold.' It was known for its gold-related activities and has been central to various cultural and historical developments, including the crafting of gold-threaded fabrics.

What is the origin of the gold-threaded fabrics mentioned in the transcript?

The gold-threaded fabrics, such as songket from Sumatera and tapis from Lampung, were not originally made from gold found in the island. Instead, gold was sent to Syam (Syria) to be transformed into gold thread before being brought back to Sumatera for weaving into these traditional fabrics.

Who is Yoshiyama Zaki and what was his contribution to the study of tapis?

Yoshiyama Zaki was a Japanese researcher who was interested in exploring the history and significance of tapis. He contributed to understanding the cultural and historical importance of the fabric, including its early religious and symbolic meanings.

What historical period does the tapis fabric trace back to, and what were its initial motifs?

Tapis dates back to approximately the 2nd century BCE. The initial motifs on the fabric were likely inspired by religious beliefs and animistic practices, often featuring images like boats and animals, which symbolized spiritual and mythological concepts.

How did the cultural and religious transitions impact the motifs of tapis?

As the region transitioned from animism and dynamism to Hindu-Buddhism and later Islam, the motifs of tapis evolved, but the fundamental cultural and traditional elements remained intact. The tapis maintained its symbolic importance while adapting to new religious and cultural contexts.

What role does tapis play in the cultural identity of Lampung?

Tapis is a key symbol of cultural identity for the people of Lampung. The fabric is used to showcase the region's unique craftsmanship and heritage, and it is a significant cultural artifact that represents the Lampung people's pride and creativity.

What has been the role of the government in promoting tapis in Lampung?

The government, along with local authorities such as the district heads and mayors, has supported the preservation and promotion of tapis as part of Lampung's cultural heritage. They have encouraged the development of tapis-related industries and tourism, thus ensuring its continued relevance.

What challenges does tapis face in terms of preservation and recognition?

One of the main challenges tapis faces is ensuring that its cultural value is preserved and recognized both locally and internationally. There are concerns over protecting its traditional production methods, ensuring its place in the national cultural heritage, and avoiding the dilution of its cultural significance.

How has the community embraced modern changes while preserving tapis traditions?

The community in Lampung has adapted to modern times by maintaining the core traditions of tapis weaving while introducing innovative designs and expanding production. This balance allows the art form to remain relevant while respecting its cultural roots.

What is the potential future of tapis as a cultural product from Lampung?

Tapis has a promising future as a cultural product from Lampung, especially with the continued support from local communities and government initiatives. Its unique craftsmanship could gain more recognition internationally, contributing to cultural tourism and the local economy.