The Meaning of Women as Kanca Wingking in Javanese House Organization of Pura Mangkunegaran

Abstract

Following Edward T Hall’s theory, the designation of women as kanca wingking can be recognized to have hidden language. It is a symbolic form of women's role and spatial occupancy in the omah mburi (back-house with the highest elevation floor level), as shown in the Javanese house space organization of Pura Mangkunegaran’s main building. This characterizes profane and sacred space norms that shape the Javanese cultural thinking and behaviour, differentiating the role of man (king) and women (empress and princesses). The hierarchical spatial system of Pura Mangkunegaran's main building reflect the philosophy of life, role of the empress, and family relationship of Javanese people. The spatial layering system of Pura Mangkunegaran (from the front to the the back of the house or dalem) forms relational pattern between the house owner (the king) with those outsiders. On the other hand, the spatial arrangement pattern from the right to the left of the main building forms relational pattern more between the house owner (the king) and his familial side. This shown that the hierarchical system of the Javanese house spatial organization serves as one of Javanese ethics in maintaining social relations (or srawung) to preserve the principles of harmony and respect.

Keywords: Meaning, Women, Kanca Wingking, Javanese House, Pura Mangkunegaran