Abstract
The Barongan Mask is a component of the Dhadak Merak, the principal icon of the Reog Ponorogo performing art. Understanding the Barongan Mask from the perspectives of fine art and craft contributes to the preservation of this traditional cultural heritage. This study aims to analyze the production techniques, visual characteristics, and symbolic meanings of the Barongan Mask created by local artisans. A descriptive qualitative approach was employed, with data collected through observations, interviews, and document analysis. Data credibility was ensured through source and technique triangulation, while data were analyzed using the Miles and Huberman interactive model. The findings reveal that the production process consists of six stages: pattern making, construction of the global form (blongkangan), character formation, decoration and accessory making, finishing, and the selamatan ritual. The techniques applied include wood carving, assembling, decorative painting, and opaque (plakat) painting. Visually, the Barongan Mask is represented as a tiger's head with a strong, majestic, and ferocious character. Symbolically, the tiger's head represents a ruler or king, the peacock feathers symbolize beauty and feminine influence, the six front teeth represent the Six Pillars of Faith in Islam, and the colors symbolize human characteristics and self-control within the Javanese cosmological worldview.
First Page
723
Last Page
741
Recommended Citation
Puspita, W. C.,
&
Ponimin, P.
(2026).
Teknik Penggarapan, Bentuk Visual, dan Makna Simbolik Topeng Barongan pada Reog Ponorogo: Studi pada Dua Pengrajin Lokal.
Journal of Language, Literature, and Arts, 6(6), 723-741.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.17977/2797-4480.1071
Available at:
https://citeus.um.ac.id/jolla/vol6/iss6/3