FLORAL MOTIFS IN KELANTAN PRECIOUS METAL CARVING

There is a very strong elements of nature in the traditional living of the Malay society ever since. This strong relationship between the Malay society and the nature environment around them has formed a very unique influence especially in the use of the nature elements as motifs in the Malay arts and culture. The ability to stylize and utilize these nature elements as motifs in the design and unique carvings demonstrates high creativity amongst Malay craftsmen particularly in the art of precious metal carvings. This study examined the selection of floral motifs in the art of precious metals carvings such as gold and silver carvings in the state of Kelantan and the diversity of floral motifs involved in the design attributes. In addition, this study also assessed the different factors which influence the selection of popular floral elements involved in the art of precious metal carvings. This study utilized qualitative approach which were literature review and field study. Field study involved interviews with precious metal craftsmen. The results showed that there was a clear and frequent usage of floral elements such as flowers, leaves, trees and fruit trees in the precious metal carvings and its strength of influence in the Malay society. These results would serve as a special inventory of floral motifs and the philosophy behind precious metal gold and silver carvings in the Malay society.