Domestic Animals in Clay Ornaments of the Sultanate of Banten

This study investigates the role of domestic animals as sources of inspiration in the decorative arts of the Sultanate of Banten, a maritime Islamic kingdom that flourished on the northwestern coast of Java, between the 16th and 19th centuries. Employing a historical archaeology approach, the research examines clay ornaments and related historical documentation to identify animal motifs commonly represented in palace artworks and to interpret their symbolic meanings. The findings reveal that livestock such as buffaloes, ducks, and chickens were not only central to the economic and social life of the archipelago but also embodied cultural values that shaped Banten’s artistic expression. By highlighting the representation of these animals in decorative arts, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of Banten’s art and cultural history, while underscoring the interconnection between human communities, domestic animals, and biodiversity. Ultimately, this study provides insights into how cultural heritage, rooted in local ecological practices and traditional knowledge systems, can inform contemporary efforts to balance wildlife conservation with the preservation of local identity and traditional ecological knowledge.

Archipelago · Cultural identity · Identity (music) · Islam · Ornaments · Representation (politics) · The arts · Wildlife · Architectural and Urban Studies · Cultural and Religious Practices in Indonesia · Pacific and Southeast Asian Studies