Interpreting Avian Imagery in Minangkabau Patterns: Insights from fiqh and Sufism perspectives

Abstract

The ongoing study investigates the anomaly in decorative patterns within Minangkabau art. These ornamental designs, characterised by abstraction rather than naturalism, bear connections to Islamic thought and Sufism within Minangkabau culture in West Sumatra. This examination focuses on specific, selected decorative patterns and is considered part of the philosophy of Islamic art. The appropriate methodology involves field research encompassing hundreds of Minangkabau artefacts featuring these ornamental designs. The process of analysis includes looking into the connection between Islamic thought and specific examples of patterns used in Minangkabau art. This includes an inquiry into how the ornaments exclusively represent the characteristics of actual birds.