Ciwaringin Batik as a Symbol of Indonesian Local Cultural Identity: A Study of Chrematonymy

Tajudin Nur; Susi Machdalena; Agus Nero; Nani Sunarni; Nany Ismail; Fahmy Lukman

doi:10.35516/Hum.2025.8604

Authors

Tajudin Nur Department of Arabic Literature, Faculty of Cultural Science, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9544-0767
Susi Machdalena Department of Russian Literature, Faculty of Cultural Science, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7414-5841
Agus Nero Department of Indonesian Literature, Faculty of Cultural Science, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3357-0099
Nani Sunarni Department of Japanese Literature, Faculty of Cultural Science, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1653-3103
Nany Ismail Department of French Literature, Faculty of Cultural Science, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7742-7921
Fahmy Lukman Department of Arabic Literature, Faculty of Cultural Science, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4973-3590

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.35516/Hum.2025.8604

Keywords:

Batik, ciwaringin, Indonesia, chrematonymy, local cultural identity, symbol

Abstract

Objectives: This research examines Ciwaringin batik as a reflection of the cultural identity of Cirebon, Indonesia. Through a chrematonymy study using an onomastic approach, it analyzes the names and meanings of Ciwaringin batik patterns. The study aims to explore how these names embody cultural, linguistic, and philosophical values, shedding light on the logical and semantic structures of language in batik.

Methods: Data were gathered from photographs of batik, articles, books, audiovisual materials, social media, and field observations in Ciwaringin. Interviews with local artisans and informants provided insights into the history and symbolic significance of the batik names and motifs. The collected data were categorized through coding, focusing on patterns such as flora, fauna, and mixed designs. The study also examined the etymology of batik names and their socio-cultural and philosophical meanings through chrononymic analysis.

Results: The findings reveal that Ciwaringin batik represents a process of cultural and religious assimilation. Key patterns identified include geometric, pangkaan, ceplok-ceplok, and mixed motifs. The batik is characterized by soft yet vibrant colors derived from natural dyes, showcasing the artisans' philosophical connection to nature and commitment to sustainability.

Conclusion: The motifs in Ciwaringin batik, inspired by local flora and fauna, highlight the community's environmental consciousness and sustainable use of natural resources, reflecting local wisdom and cultural identity.

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