Iconographic Analysis of the Borobudur Ship Based on Leemans’ Line Drawing: Visualizing the Maritime Identity of Sriwijaya

Yosef Yulius; Anak Agung Gde Bagus Udayana; Alit Kumala Dewi; I Wayan Mudra

doi:10.55927/ijis.v5i4.21

Authors

Yosef Yulius Institut Seni Indonesia Bali
Anak Agung Gde Bagus Udayana Institut Seni Indonesia Bali
Alit Kumala Dewi Institut Seni Indonesia Bali
I Wayan Mudra Institut Seni Indonesia Bali

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55927/ijis.v5i4.21

Keywords:

Iconography, Visual Identity, Sriwijaya, Maritime Symbolism, Design Research

Abstract

Sriwijaya is historically recognized as a major maritime polity in Southeast Asia; however, its representation as a coherent maritime identity remains inconsistent in contemporary visual design practice. This study examines the iconographic potential of the Borobudur ship as a visual foundation for constructing Sriwijaya’s maritime identity. The research employs qualitative visual analysis focusing on the line drawing documentation produced by Conradus Leemans, supported by epigraphic interpretation of the Kedukan Bukit Inscription, which records large-scale mobilization associated with early Sriwijaya expansion. Through iconographic analysis, structural elements of the ship, including hull configuration, outrigger system, mast, and sail formation, demonstrate characteristics consistent with ocean-going maritime technology. The findings indicate that the Borobudur ship possesses symbolic legitimacy as a visual representation of maritime culture contemporaneous with Sriwijaya. By integrating textual historical evidence and visual artefacts, this study proposes an iconographic framework that positions the Borobudur ship as a conceptual basis for developing a more coherent maritime visual identity of Sriwijaya within contemporary design discourse

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