Tinjauan Semiotika Ornamen Arsitektural Candi Sewu

Abstract

Title: Semiotics of Sewu Temple Ornaments in Contextual Architecture

Contemporary architecture in Indonesia often replicates traditional ornamentation merely as visual elements, thereby reducing its philosophical and spiritual value. This study addresses such concerns by selecting Sewu Temple, an 8th-century Buddhist complex closely associated with Mahayana Buddhism, as the case study. The research aims to reveal the semiotic meanings of Sewu’s architectural ornaments and their relevance to the architectural context. The study employed a qualitative approach using Roland Barthes’ semiotic framework, consisting of denotation, connotation, and myth. At the myth level, interpretation was enriched with Mahayana teachings, particularly the Trikāya concept. Data were collected through field observation, visual documentation, and literature review, and analyzed interpretively. The findings indicate that ornaments such as padma, makara, bodhisattva, kala, ratna, and natural-geometric motifs embody layered meanings: purity, protection, compassion, cosmic order, and spiritual perfection. This confirms that Sewu’s ornaments are not mere decorations but symbolic systems rich in meaning. The study offers inspiration for applying local values in contemporary architectural contexts, ensuring modern design remains both functional and culturally meaningful.