Barong Dance

Barong is probably the most well known dance. It is also another story telling dance, narrating the fight between good and evil. This dance is the classic example of Balinese way of acting out mythology, resulting in myth and history being blended into one reality.

The story goes that Rangda, the mother of Erlangga, the King of Bali in the tenth century, was condemned by Erlangga's father because she practiced black magic. After she became a widow, she summoned all the evil spirits in the jungle, the leaks and the demons, to come after Erlangga. A fight occurred, but she and her black magic troops were too strong that Erlangga had to ask for the help of Barong. Barong came with Erlangga's soldiers
, and fight ensued. Rangda casted a spell that made Erlangga soldiers all wanted to kill themselves, pointing their poisoned keris into their own stomachs and chests. Barong casted a spell that turned their body resistant to the sharp keris. At the end, Barong won, and Rangda ran away.

Somebody can die or get seriously injured in a Barong dance. It is said that if Rangda's spell is too strong, a weak soldier may not be able to resist it, even with the help of Barong. He may end up hurting himself with his own keris.

The masks of Barong and Rangda are considered sacred items, and before they are brought out, a priest must be present to offer blessings by sprinkling them with holy water taken from Mount Agung, and offerrings must be presented.

Calon Arang

Calon Arang is a character in Balinese folklore from the 12th century. It is still unknown who composed this story.

It is said that Calon Arang was a widow, powerful in black magic, who often damaged farmer's crops and caused disease to come. She had a girl, named Ratna Manggali, who, though beautiful, could not get a husband because people were afraid of her mother. Because of the difficulties faced by her daughter, Calon Arang was angry and she intended to take revenge by kidnapping a young girl. She brought the girl to a temple to be sacrificed to the goddess Durga. The next day, a great flood engulfed the village and many people died. Disease also appeared.
King Airlangga, who had heard of this matter,
then asked for his advisor, Empu Baradah, to deal with this problem. Empu Baradah then sent his disciple, Empu Bahula, to be married to Ratna. Both were married with a huge feast that lasted seven days and seven nights, and the situation returned to normal.
Calon Arang had a book that contained magic incantations. One day, this book was found by Empu Bahula, who turned it over to Empu Baradah. As soon as Calon Arang knew that the book had been stolen, she became angry and decided to fight Empu Baradah. Without the help of Durga, Calon Arang was defeated. Since she was defeated, the village was safe from the threat of Calon Arang's black magic.

Kecak Dance

Kecak dance is typical of Balinese performing arts that was created in the 1930s, played by dozens of men who sit in rows in a circle and with a certain rhythm called for the word "cak" and raised both arms.
The dancers sit in a circle wearing a checkered cloth like a chessboard encircled their waists.

This dance depicting the Ramayana as line of apes help fight Ravana. Kecak dance songs taken from the ritual dancessanghyang dancers dance traditions will be in an unconscious condition, communicating with God or the spirits of the ancestorsand then convey their expectations to the community.
Travelers who are interested in watching Kecak can choose one of three locations the show, among other Luhur Pura Uluwatu, at the Batubulan Village, as well as at Hanuman Road.
Kecak Dance privilege of not relying on instruments toaccompany dancing, but the chorus dancers. Kecak dance is also known as the Kecak and Fire Dance. Performing this lastkind of bonuses that can invite the audience amazed.

Melasti

Melasti purification of self is an activity ahead of Hari Raya NyepiSaka New Year marked a convoy carrying people dressed intraditional "Pratime" to various beaches.

Melasti ritual has been going on from last Saturday on several beaches in the area of ??Bali, for example Padanggalak Beach,Sanur Beach, Semawang, Kuta, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua and TanahLot.

Purification activities involve hundreds of citizens from dozens ofhamlets in a single row or a traditional village, so vibrant, lively,and so attract the attention of tourists.

When the Melasti villagers who brought "Pratime" and othersacred objects menyelupkan feet into coastal waters as asymbol of purification in order to progress the implementation ofHari Raya Nyepi calm and peaceful.

Oh yes, it is the object symbol Pratime worship in any temple ofeach row are consecrated or sacred, accompanied by a variety of equipment such as offerings, banners, umbrellas, with theaccompaniment of traditional music bleganjur tetabuhan like.

Purification ritual involves two things, namely "bhuana agung" or the universe and "bhuana alit" which is translated assoul. And the ritual is performed by each group, consisting ofdozens of banjo in a traditional village that.

Ogoh-Ogoh

Ogoh-ogoh is sculpture in Balinese culture who describe Bhuta Kala personality. In the teachings of Hindu Dharma, Bhuta Kala represents strength (Bhu) universe and time (Kala) is not measurable and irrefutable.
In the embodiment of the statue in question, Bhuta Kala portrayed as a big and scary, usually in the form of Rakshasa.

Apart form of Rakshasa, Ogoh-ogoh are often depicted in the form of creatures that live in Mayapada, heaven and Hell, such as dragons, elephants, eagles, Widyadari, even the gods. During its development, there are made to resemble famous people, such as the world leaders,
artists or religious figures even criminals. Related to this, there is also a political or racial intolerance, although in fact it is deviating from the basic principles of Ogoh-ogoh. Ogoh-ogoh example depicting a terrorist.
In the main function, Ogoh-ogoh as a representation of Bhuta Kala, was made before the Nyepi Day and paraded around the village abuzz Pangrupukan at dusk, the day before Nyepi.
According to scholars and practitioners of Hindu Dharma, this process represents the realization of human will power of the universe and time is infinite fierce. That power includes the power of Buana Agung (universe) and Buana Alit (human beings). In view of Tattwa (philosophy), these forces can deliver sentient beings, especially human beings and the whole world to happiness or destruction. All this depends on the noble intentions of man, as God's most noble creatures in keeping himself and the whole world.

Alas Kedaton

Alas Kedaton is located in the village of Kukuh District of Marga, Tabanan city. There are two interesting things in this place :
1.Kedaton temple has four entrances into the temple is from the west which is the main entrance of the rest of the Northern, Eastern and Southern to all leading to the central courtyard.

2.the Monkeys,which amounted to some 300's that are divided into 3 groups. Where each group led by a king with a posture that is large enough. In contrast to the monkey at Uluwatu which is a bit frightening, monkeys here tend to be benign. Both of the bats (bats) flying above a large tree behind the temple.
The location of this temple itself is in the woods Kedaton Alas. Entering the temple area, visitors will be escorted by the women of souvenir merchandise vendors as well as his guide. Interesting, because only in this place is very disciplined traders. They have the numbers queuing up to take visitors around Alas Kedaton. Completed around they will invite guests stop in their store and tried to offer his wares.

Gamelan

Gamelan is a musical ensemble that usually highlight metallophone, xylophone, drums, and gongs. The term gamelan refers to the instrument / tool, which is a unified whole that is realized and sounded together. Gamelan word itself comes from the Javanese gamel which means hitting / beating, followed by an ending that makes it a noun. Gamelan orchestra mostly located on the island of Java, Madura, Bali, and Lombok in Indonesia in various sizes and shapes ensemble. In Bali and Lombok today, and in Java through the 18th century, the term gong is more considered synonymous with gamelan.

Occurrences gamelan preceded by Hindu-Buddhist culture that dominated Indonesia in the early days of recording history, which also represents the original art of Indonesia. Instrument developed to shape up like this in the days of the Majapahit Kingdom. In contrast to the music of India, the only impact of the India-an in gamelan music is how menyanikannya. In Javanese mythology, the gamelan dicipatakan by Sang Hyang Guru in Saka Era, the god who controlled the whole land of Java, with a castle on the mountain Mahendra in Medangkamulan (now Lawu). Sang Hyang Guru first created gong to summon the gods. For a more specific message then creates two gongs, and eventually formed the set of gamelan.
The description of the first ensemble of musical instruments found in the temple of Borobudur, Magelang, Central Java, which has stood since the 8th century. Musical instruments such as bamboo flute, chimes, drums in various sizes, harp, stringed musical instrument that is swiped and learned, are found in the reliefs. However, little is found elements of metal musical instruments. However, the relief of the instrument is said to be the origin of the gamelan.

Gamelan orchestra tuning and making is a complex process. Gamelan tuning using four ways, namely slendro, pelog, "gamelan" (special area of ??Sunda, or West Java), and "madenda" (also known as the diatonic, the same as the original minor scale that is widely used in Europe.

Gamelan music is a combination of foreign artistic influence that diverse. Not regard the tone of the Chinese musical instruments from Southeast Asia, drum band and move to music from India, bowed strings from the Middle East, Europe and even the military style that we hear the traditional music of Java and Bali today.

Interaction components are loaded with melody, rhythm and timbre to maintain the glory of the Balinese gamelan orchestra music. The pillars of this music brings together a variety of Balinese rural community character that became the order of the typical music that is an inseparable part of everyday life.

Janger Dance

Janger, social dance performed by young people that some people in pairs.
Who does not know Janger? Once the word was revealed, people would have been associated with Bali. Janger dance is one of Indonesia in general and Bali in particular is already very well known either in their own country or in foreign countries. When and where exactly it appears Janger no one knows exactly because it was thought he was already hundreds of years and the groups that perform are scattered in several areas of South Bali.

Janger itself was exhibited by some in pairs. The women and men will be dancing and singing alternately. This dance is more indicative of the story of couples who are in love and seek mutual sulking with each other. Janger including social dance dance which exhibited a certain moment as an entertainment. Dance movements are basic movements that exist in Balinese dance itself is not that difficult or most difficult. The music that accompanies the tetamburan equipped with gender wayang.

During its development today, Janger been abandoned by many of the young people of Bali. There are only a few groups remaining Janger. To Denpasar area, the famous group of Janger Kedaton located in the territory of East Denpasar (Kesiman). For the latest Badung region, these groups can be found in the Village Sibang commonly known by the name Janger Gong. Gianyar region located in the Village Pliatan. One of the most unique is that there are groups in the village Janger Bulian Buleleng. Because almost predominately Tuna Janger Speech and the players even this is they who have a shortage. They are usually assisted by one coach / guide that gives aba2 to perform certain movements. Sympathetic sense of course given by those who applaud and admire the work done by the dancers to attempt to provide a consolation for the community. Behind the shortcomings they have, they can show that no matter how much effort will be capable of filling the gap.

Goa Lawah (Bat Cave)

Bali is a tourist attraction is a cave located on the beach called Kusamba coast, at the mouth of the cave there is a temple named Goa Lawah temples.

Goa Lawah very interesting to visit because of strategic location just off the beach with views of sea and Nusa Penida island in the distance and the arrangement of beautiful beaches and beautiful. On the beach sometimes tourists can witness the traditional ceremonies and activities can also see the bats hanging from the edge of the cave. Bali attractions make this one worth your visit with your family during the holidays to Bali.
Goa Lawah Klungkung regency located at approximately 1 hour drive from the city of Denpasar or 4 miles from downtown Semarapura which is the capital city of Klungkung regency.
In Lawah cave consists of two syllables of the Goa which means cave and Lawah which means bat cave where Lawah inhabited by thousands of bats in the mouth tail attraction is there a temple bali status Khayangan Jagat Pura. Pura Goa Lawah is a sacred and beautiful area. There was a blend of sea and mountains (-yoni phallus). As the name suggests, in this temple there is a cave that is inhabited by thousands of bats. While at the mouth of the cave there are several palinggih Stana of the Gods. In pelatarannya, also stood firm some Meru and other sthana. Told it comes to Bali MPU Kuturan the X century when government-led Children's Youngest sister of King Airlangga. Airlangga himself reigned in East Java (1019-1042). When it arrived, mpu Kuturan meet many sects in Bali. Seeing the fact that, mpu Kuturan Tri Murti then develop the concept with the aim of uniting the MPU Kuturan all sects also teaches making heaven Pakraman Three in every village in Bali and confirmed the existence of heaven Jagat one of which is Goa Lawah.

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

Tourist attraction located in the village of Goa Gajah Bedulu, Blahbatuh district, Gianyar regency. From the capital city of Denpasar, just take more time than less 45 minutes or within about 30 km towards the northeast, was in lane highway between Ubud to Kintamani.

Goa Gajah is a historic tourist attraction in the form of a cave where a monastery and Buddhist religious activities and religious Shiva (Hindu). In addition there are historical artifacts, these places have beautiful scenery surrounded by rice fields and rivers because of small (pakung). Goa Gajah is built on the edge of a small river meeting the water then flows into the river Petanu. Because the flow of the meeting of two rivers called "Campuhan" considered to have magical value, then the hermitage was built. Places and activities Buddhist hermitage located across the south of the river while in the north side of the river is a hermitage and religious activities of Shiva. The origin of Goa Gajah not be known with certainty. According to ancient Javanese book, written by mpu Negarakertagama Prapanca in 1365 AD, the name Goa Gajah derived from the word "LWA Gajah", LWA from lwah or loh which means water or river and the elephant is the name of the river is now called the river Petanu. Others say the name Goa Gajah derived from the statue of Ganesha in a cave on the northwest corner where the statue of Ganesha's trunk like an elephant head wear. In the year 975 Saka inscriptions Dawan Pandak Bandung and inscriptions mentioning the name of the hermitage "Antakunjarapada". When viewed from the meaning of the word 'kunjara' which means elephant, and the 'anta' means end or limit, while 'on' means a place or region. Thus Antakunjarapada means hermitage located in the border region Elephant Water, which is now called the Elephant Cave. Hermitage of Goa Gajah which in Sanskrit is called Antakunjarapada can be connected with Kunjarakunja hermitage in southern India on the slopes of Mount Kunjara, residence now called Agastya Rsi Agastya-panicle. The surroundings Kunjarakunja hermitage in the mountains on the banks of the river Tamraparni expected to be the concept of naming the hermitage of Goa Gajah. Buddhist statues and reliefs at the Buddhist monastery located on the south side of the river has a shape similar to the one in the Borobudur Temple. Based on this evidence, it can be said that in the 8th century AD, Goa Gajah was a Buddhist religious activities, religious relics older than Shiva contained within the cave itself. Relics in the cave as a statue of Ganesha, Trilingga in a square pedestal and Kadiri writing on the wall east of the entrance that reads "Kumon sahy (w) angsa" is writing a quadrangular. A similar article was found in the Gunung Kawi Temple Rock, which reads "haji lumahing jalu" and in the temple next to it contained the words "rwa ta (a) nak ira". Based on the type of writing is thought to originate from the 11th century AD. On the basis of evidence that can be said that the Goa Gajah in the 11th century AD was a place of religious activity of Shiva. Reliefs carved on the wall face of Goa Gajah is a sculpture that resembles the wild mountains with various trees and animals signify the monastery in the mountains with dense forest with various animals, the same as in Kunjarakunja monastery in southern India. Above the hole cave sculptures decorated stage that serves to maintain the sanctity and protect the hermitage. In 1923 a new Goa Gajah known to exist where previously covered by shrubs. Inside there are 13 niches Goa Gajah, 4 niche is in the hallway and the rest are in the cave, which serves to put the statue cult with the tools of ritual. Ganesha statue is located on the west niche and statue niches Trilingga located in the east. God Ganesha is a son of Lord Shiva, the god of repellent danger so-called gods Wighnapati. It is also called the god of wisdom and the god of wisdom and at the time called Winayaka. Ekadanta god is the god of the fanged one because of a broken fangs when it used the weapon when fighting giants Nilarudraka. Lord Ganesha seated attitudes that unite the toes called Wirasana symbolizes keprawiraan, genitri or beads that are the fabric of science items. Canine fracture in his right hand is a symbol of breaking keraksasaan and a bowl of water on the left hand which is inhaled with its trunk, symbolizing that science should be studied and searched. While parasu or ax is to avert danger. While Trilingga in a pedestal surrounded by 8 small phallus is central to worship the god Shiva in a vertical aspect, that of Lord Shiva, Sada Shiva, and Parama Shiva. Eight small phallus surrounding Astadewata interpreted as a symbol of the eight aspects of Shiva as the god Iswara, Brahma, the god Mahadeva, the god Vishnu, the god Mahesora, the god Rudra, Sangkara gods, and gods Sambu. And when added to one of the god Shiva in the midst of the Gods will be Nawa Sanga. On the outside of the cave there is a pond with a fountain which is the place to take the holy water for ritual purposes. Pond which was originally buried, only discovered in 1954 by Krijgsman of the Archaeological Department at that time. And statues found in your shower is a statue maidens who may number in fact there are 7 pieces but found only 5 pieces. Statues were divided into 2 groups, each of which there are 3 showers lined and one in the middle of nothing. Seven shower as a place to take the holy water to take the concept of 'Sapta tirta' ie 7 holy water which has a purity equal to 'Sapta pulse' of 7 purified river in India include the Ganges, the river Sindhu, Saraswati river, the river Yamuna, the river Godawari , Serayu rivers, and streams Darmada. At this time, ancient relics of Goa Gajah into a temple of Pura Goa Gajah the diayomi by the local community.

Taman Ayu

Taman Ayun Temple is a huge complex, located in District Mengwi, Badung, Bali, approximately 18 miles from the heart of Denpasar City. After we passed the entrance, spacious well-tended gardens welcoming, with green grass that is really beautiful, but unfortunately on a hot day this can become very heavy because there are no large trees to provide shade in this park. When we look for shade, rear garden is the answer. It would be nice to walk on cobblestone streets under the big trees by the sound ditemanani birds were singing.

Taman Ayun literally translated as a beautiful garden and is considered one of the most interesting temples in Bali. Built in 1634 by King Mengwi, I Gusti Putu Agung. This temple is bordered by a wide river that irrigates the rice fields around the site. This temple is dedicated to the ancestors Kingdom Mengwi and other important gods. Taman Ayun Temple is considered as the "Temple Room" for the Kingdom of Mengwi.

To enter the temple complex, we have to cross the bridge connecting the temple complex and the main road. There is a small temple as guardians of the entrance on the left and right. There is also a big wantilan (open space), a place where ceremonies are often held Tabuh Rah. There is also a fountain with nine shower.

Entering the second gate, there is a bale with Dewata Nawa Sanga carvings are amazing, a god who guarded the nine cardinal directions. The second page is a central Jaba, and in this area, there is a high Kulkul Bale stands majestically like a skyscraper. Kulkul is the traditional media to communicate. Kulkul used to summon villagers to gather together. Kulkul sound may vary according to the kegaiatan what will be done by the community.

The most sacred temple dalah Jaba Jero. This place has three gates. The gate in the center is only opened when the activities carried out religious ceremonies. This door serves as the exit and entrance to the sacred statues and other sacred instruments for ceremonial activities. Two other door on the right and left for everyday use. On this page there are several Meru in various shapes and sizes.

Three pages in the temple complex is a symbol of the three levels of the cosmic world. The first is a place for humans, the second is where the spirit or atma, and the main page is a place where the Lord, which is a symbol of heaven. In an ancient tale entitled Adhiparwa, said that the entire temple complex of Mount Mahameru illustrates that float in the ocean of milk.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is located in the village of Yellow, Baturiti District, Tabanan regency. The distance from Denpasar town about 50 km to the north along the highway Denpasar - Singaraja. Temple is located on the shores of Lake Beratan, its name taken from the lake in the name of the temple was founded is Danu Beratan.

A glimpse of history Ulun Danu Beratan be known based on archaeological data and historical data contained in the statement Mengwi Chronicle.
Archaeological Data. On the left side of the front page Ulun Danu Beratan temple contained a stone sarcophagus, and a board, which is derived from the megalithic tradition, around 500 BC. Both artifacts are now placed above each Babaturan (terrace). It can be expected that the location where Ulun Danu Beratan composed, has been used as a place to conduct rituals since ancient megalithic.

I Gusti Agung Putu as the founder of Pura Mengwi founded on the edge of Lake Beratan, before he established the Pura Taman Ayun. not say when he founded the Ulun Danu Beratan, but contained in that statement is the establishment of the Taman Ayun Temple ceremony held on the day of Saka Anggara Kliwon Medangsia Sad Yaksa Gods Bhuta ie caka year 1556 (1634 AD). Based on the description in the Chronicle Mengwi statement can be known that Ulun Danu Beratan saka founded before the year 1556, by I Gusti Agung Putu. Since the founding of the famous temple Mengwi, and I Gusti Agung Putu was called by his people "I Gusti Agung Sakti".

Ulun Danu Beratan temple complex consists of four, namely:
1.Linga Petak Temple
2.Penataran Pucak Mangu Temple
3.Terate Bang Temple
4.Dalem Purwa Temple
serves to praise God's glory in its manifestation as a god Tri Murti, in order to invoke the grace of fertility, prosperity, human well-being and the universe.

Trunyan

Trunyan Village is a quaint village on the shores of Lake Batur, Kintamani, Bangli regency. This village is a village of Bali Aga, Bali Mula with people's lives are unique and interesting Bali Aga means the Balinese mountains, while the Bali Mula means the original Balinese. Trunyan culture reflects a pattern of peasant culture is conservative.

Based on folk etymology, Trunyan residents perceive themselves and their identity in two versions. The first version, is the Balinese people Trunyan derivatives, because they believe that their ancestors 'down' from heaven to earth Trunyan. Related to this version, the Trunyan have a sacred myth or fairy tale about the origin of the population Trunyan is a goddess of the sky.
Based on folk etymology, Trunyan residents perceive themselves and their identity in two versions. The first version, is the Balinese people Trunyan Derivatives, because they believe that their ancestors 'down' from heaven to earth Trunyan. Related to this version, the Trunyan have a sacred myth or fairy tale about the origin of the population Trunyan is a goddess of the sky.
The second version, the Trunyan live in the ecological system in the presence of Taru incense trees, ie trees that spread the smells fragrant. From perdaduan word "taru" and "incense" develops the word Trunyan used the village name and the name of the villagers.
Trunyan village located on the east mouth of the lake Batur, the location is very remote. Road from Penelokan, Kintamani, just arrived in the village Kedisan. From Kedisan to Trunyan village people have to cross lake Batur for 45 minutes by motorboat or 2 hours by canoes powered by paddle. In addition to waterways, Trunyan can also be achieved by land, passing through a village trail Fruits and Abang.
Eve Trunyan village is very cool air, temperatures average 17 degrees Celsius and can go down to 12 degrees Celsius. Lake Batur with a length of 9 km and a width of 5 km is one of the water source and the source of life Balinese agrarian south and east.
Specifically, related to people's of trunyan beliefs about illness and death , then the way the funeral of Trunyan there are 2 kinds:

1. Put the corpse on the ground under the open air which is called mepasah. People who are buried in a way mepasah are those who at the time of death of those who have been married, people who are still single and young children are milk teeth have been dated.
2. Buried Those who died were buried after their disabled body, or at the time of death there are wounds that have not healed the body, such as occurs in people with smallpox, leprosy and others. People who die by unnatural like murdered or committed suicide is also buried. Young children who have not dated well as milk teeth buried when she died.
For the purposes of burial, in the village there is a grave Trunyan namely:

1. Sema wayah destined for burial types mepasah
2. Sema bantas, reserved for the burial.
3. Sema nguda, destined for burial of the two types of mepasah and burial.

Art Centre

Cultural Park Art Centre Denpasar was originally a Development Project Arts Center in Denpasar Bali which was formed in 1969 which aims to preserve the wealth of art and culture of Bali. This project is the brainchild of the late Professor. dr. Ida Bagus Mantra. The project is named 'Werdhi Culture / Art Centre, and then on August 16, 1978 dikembagakan with the name' Art Centre '. Art Centre is located in Jalan Nusa Indah ± 2 km to the east from the center of Denpasar. In this place comprises several buildings into a tourist attraction:

1.Mandara Giri Mahudara Bhuwana building where the exhibition is a work of art
2.Ardha Candra is an open platform which is used for staging colossal
3.Ksirarnawa (stage enclosed) that is used for staging arts colossal, and still many other buildings that became tourist attraction.

Parks Culture / Art Centre is always used as the central organization of the Bali Arts Festival every year in mid-June, s / d in July. if you have limited time cultural park / Art Center is just as visually presented objects bali full, containing many interesting things bali cultural values ??contained herein.

Lempuyang Temple

Luhur Lempuyang Temple is one tourist attraction in Bali, and is a sacred place for Hindus in Bali are located in the eastern part of Bali precisely in Karangasem regency.

Against the backdrop of the stunning panoramic view of Mount Agung, as well as a sanctuary, Sad Lempuyang Kahyangan Luhur Temple is unique with its natural purity, especially the forest into the lungs island.
Early in the trip started with turns and climbs, the first sights we visited was the Lempuyang Madya Temple and Dang Kahyangan Temple. Problem status and the kasungsung (in worship) in the temple is convinced is Ida Batara Mpu Agenijaya and Mpu Manik Geni. Where, Mpu Agenijaya seven brothers, of whom Mpu Kuturan,Mpu Semeru and Mpu Baradah. While the existing palinggih among palinggih bebaturan Linggih Batara Mpu Agenijaya sareng Mpu Manikgeni, Gedong Overlapping Siki (one), two and three, Manjangan Saluang, Studio Court, Bale Pawedaan, and Bale Pesandekan.
For tourists who want to see the beauty of the summit of Mount Lempuyang towards the utama Sad Kahyangan Lempuyang Luhur Temple we have to tread more than 1,700 (one thousand seven hundred) steps, while on his way to the top of this we are in suguhi cool air of the forest is still beautiful, the sound voices of animals and landscapes are stunning Karangasem regency, which is more unique.
For Hindus as well as tourists who want Tangkil (coming to pray) into the Lempuyang Temple, the one decent thing is to prepare physical endurance, and of course the pure sincere heart, and taboos that should be on the stick that is not allowed to say rude when traveling, people cuntaka (as there are families who died), menstruating women, children not on milk teeth should not be used to enter temples or pray to a local temple, carrying or eating pork are also not allowed.

Hot Water Banyuwedang

Hot Water Banyuwedang sourced from hot springs that emerge on the beach. This hot water is under water at high tide. Is the largest source of hot water, safety of concrete buildings made in the form of a circle that serves as a levee, so that when the tide is not the hot water mixes with seawater. This hot water contains sulfur with an average temperature of 40 degrees centigrade.

Because of the relatively high sulfur content, hot water is widely believed even to the island of Java, because hot water can cure some diseases especially skin diseases. No wonder that many people who came here with the hope the disease can be cured. The beach where there are hot springs that are overgrown with mangrove plants to prevent coastal erosion. It could be argued Bayuwedang beach is free from abrasion.
The existence of the bay and some surrounding white sand adds to tourism assets around this Bishopscourt. Hot Water Bishopscourt Village is located in District Pejarakan Gerokgak 60 km from the town of Singaraja, lane boundary area of ??West Bali National Park. To the south of the highway to the Hot Water Bishopscourt including National Parks, while in the north is the area of ??Batu Ampar consisting of calcareous soil. Batu Ampar region by region level II Buleleng has been planned as a new tourist area, given the potential for greater appeal, such as the Marine Park around Menjangan Island.
The road to the hot water from the highway department Bishopscourt-Gilimanuk Singaraja has hardened, so too has built parking facilities. In the hot springs constructed a building with multiple bathrooms closed. In Hot Water Bishopscourt area there are also some toilet facilities built by the Bali Barat National Park, and some shelter. The number of tourists visiting the archipelago high when compared with foreign nationals. Visitors who come mostly for the purpose of treatment. Visitors to the island of Java, mostly from Banyuwangi region.
Indeed the hot springs located in the middle of Bishopscourt mangroves on the beach. The surrounding area is relatively barren soil because the soil consists of limestone and the absence of a river can be made ??for the greening of the surrounding water sources. Therefore a lot of growing plants are plants that do not require much water, as known in Bali as a tree "bekeul" or "bangyang". The existence of hot water that contains sulfur which is located on the beach is supported by sparsely populated areas so as to create an atmosphere calm, causing the Regional Government of the Province of Bali will develop this area as the Area Tourism for Health, or commonly called "Health Tourism".

Desa Mas

Desa Mas / Mas village is a village of art that focuses on the art of carving wood sculptures. Mas village, Ubud district, Gianyar regency, is located approximately 15 miles to the east of Denpasar on the road stricken eastern part of Bali. The starting point of the entrance to the village of Mas is Sakah crossroads, where the monumental statue of the baby.

The village has a distinctive style in the art of carving wood sculpture that emphasizes the synergy characteristic humanism and naturalism. Fame of this village as the village of art can not be separated from the greatness of the names of some maistro born, raised, finding identity and has a talent for carving wood sculpture work.
Results arts crafts wooden sculpture in the village has the dimensions of a broad and diverse as sculpture for the offering (the statues statue through upakara / sacred ceremonies can be stanakan as a symbol of the sacred statues), the representation dimension of social life of the Balinese day-to-day (farmers, fishermen, craftsmen, merchants, etc.), the dimensions of the abstract as a form of imaginative artists who respond to the nature, dynamics and philosophy of life.
Art materials are wood sculptures were from the island itself and there is imported from outside the island such as sandalwood, ebony, and mahogany.
Dimensional weight gain is large and extends to the interests of souvenirs and commodities trading.
Mas village communities experiencing a cultural transformation from an agrarian society to a society craftsmen and now continues into the public service, both services trade and procurement services for tourist souvenirs.

Batubulan Village

This place is a village within the scope of the Sub Regional Level II Sukawati Gianyar District of the Province of Bali. Batubulan village was originally known as an agricultural village rich in arts including Dance and Art Carved. The structure of agrarian society and culture animated by Hindus to be the basis of community life Batubulan Village.

Batubulan very famous as a tourist typical Barong Dance Tour. The village is located in Denpasar-Gianyar track about 10 km from Denpasar and 21 km from Gianyar. Every day, the foreign tourists and Archipelago witnessed Barong Dance performances in five places. Besides, tourists can also see the rocks sculptors make sculptures for home decor hotel, crossroads, bridges and temples.

Arja

Arja is a kind of Balinese opera, a dance drama performed by macapat dialogue.

 Arja dance drama is one of the arts that is very popular among the people. Arja name probably derived from the word Reja (Sanskrit) which means "beauty". Gamelan is usually used to accompany Arja called "Gaguntangan" the voice was low and tunable so it can add to the beauty of the song sung by the dancers.
Arja expected to appear in 1820's, during the reign of King Klungkung Bali, I Dewa Agung Sakti. Toward the end of the 20th century Muani Arja was born, where all the players are male, some female role. Arja was greeted with great enthusiasm by the public, especially since presenting fresh comedy.

Daksina

When we refer to daksina, in the minds of ordinary Balinese people will imagine a form jejahitan (crafts) a cylindrical made ??of palm leaves that are old, and the contents of the rice, money, oil, eggs, ducks and others. Daksina are offerings made ??for the purpose of spiritual testimony. Daksina is a symbol Hyang Guru (Lord Shiva) and is therefore used as a witness to the Gods.

Actually daksina general sense is a tribute in the form of ceremony and property or money to a priest / master of ceremonies. This tribute should dihaturkan (given) to put it mildly. Dedication is very important and even necessary condition is one that can be called organized Yadnya quality (satwika Yadnya).
The Types Of Daksina :
Daksina multiples of 1: daksina alit.
Daksina multiples of 2: daksina pakala-kalaan (Manusa Yajna).
Daksina multiples of 3: daksina Kripa (Rsi Yajna).
Daksina multiples of 4: daksina gede / pamogpog (ceremony).
Daksina multiples of 5: daksina galahan.

Symbolic of daksina Ingredients:

1. Tapak Dara (+) in the form of a plus sign, a symbol of the Swastika of Hindu religion. symbol of both macrocosm and microcosm balance. vertically and horizontally
2. Rice is the staple food of life, as a symbol of the seed of life.
3. Coconut is a symbol Pawitra (water of immortality) or a symbol of the earth / universe
4. Eggs are used in duck egg daksina; wrapped with diamond egg, is a symbol of his early life, a symbol of Sri Rama Alit who inhabit this earth,
5. Peselan. It consists of five kinds of leaves that represent the five colors: white leaf emblem Isvara durian, mangosteen leaves red symbol of Brahma, olive leaf / yellow emblem ceroring Mahadeva, leaf color salak brumbun symbol of Visnu, the leaves green jackfruit or arising Siva symbol. Papeselan is also a symbol of cooperation (Tri Hita Karana).
6. Gantusan is wrapped in banana leaves (2 packs). Each of which is filled with all kinds of fish, spices (which represents the contents of terrestrial and marine) and grains (5 kinds) that has a color (black, white, red, yellow and mixed).
7. Raw banana, in terms of its color is green / black. In the game symbolizes the finger.
8. Tingkih in terms of its color is white which symbolizes purity.
9. Pangi / Fruit kluwek symbol Pradhana / material / women, in terms of red (power). In tetandingan symbolizes chin ..
10. Base / betel slight hit tied up in such a way that it becomes one, porosan is a symbol of worship.
11. Tukelan binder yarn is a tool and symbol of the dragon Anantabhoga Takshaka dragons and dragon Basuki, the use of threads in every execution of religious ceremony has a symbolic significance as a connecting cord between the worship and revered, as a binder spirituality.

Canang Sari

Canang Sari that is the essence of mind and intention of the sacred as a sign of devotion / respect to Hyang Widhi Wasa when there is a shortage of time studying towards spirituality (Said MPU Lutuk Alit).
Canang sari is a Upakara / offerings that always accompany or complement any offerings / sacrifices, all prepared Upakara called complete if you are not yet equipped with canang sari.
meaning contained in a Canang sari :

1. Ceper
Ceper is the base of the canang, which has a rectangular shape as a symbol of the body (angga-sarira). Four sides as a symbol of the Panca Maha Bhuta, Panca Tan Mantra, Panca Buddhindriya, Panca Karmendriya that make up the occurrence of this entity.

2. rice
"Rice or wija" as a symbol of Sang Hyang Atman, which makes this body can live.
Rice / wija as a symbol of the seed, in every human being / life began with seed sourced from Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa tangible Atma. Nor angga-sarira/badan Ceper as a symbol of good without the presence of Sang Hyang Atma.

3. Porosan
A Porosan made ??of betel leaf, lime / prestige, and jambe or gambier as a symbol / Nyasa Premana Tri and Tri-Kaya.
*Tri-Premana are three ways to know the essence of the truth of something, whether real or astrak include pratyaksa (see and hold), Anumana (prove), and Religion (the knowledge that the teacher / scholar).
*Tri Kaya : Bayu, Sabda, and IDEP (thoughts, words, and deeds).
Betel leaf as a symbol of black color as the Nyasa of Lord Vishnu, in the form of tri-Premana as a symbol of the Sabda , Jambe / Gambir as a symbol of Lord Brahma, in the form of Tri-Premana as a symbol of Bayu (deed), Lime / prestige as a symbol of Lord Iswara, in the form of Tri-Premana as a symbol of IDEP (the mind).

4.cane and bananas.
On top of a flat had been filled with rice, porosan, and also filled with a slice of sugar cane and banana slice. Sugar cane or bananas have meaning as a symbol amrtha. Once we have the body and the spirit that animates our body, and tri Pramana which allows us to have an activity, by having an activity we can realize Amrtha is to feed body and soul. Sugarcane and bananas are a symbol / Nyasa Amrtha created by Tri Pramana strength and in the form of Tri Kaya.

5.Sampian Uras.
Sampian uras made ??from coconut which laid out a series of circular which usually consists of eight segments or strands, which symbolizes the wheel of life with Astaa iswaryanya / eight characteristics that accompany every human life, namely:
- Dahram (Wisdom)
- Sathyam (Truth and loyalty)
- Pasupati (sharpness, intellect)
- Kama (pleasure)
- Eswarya (leadership)
- Krodha (anger)
- Mrtyu (envy, jealousy, revenge)
- Kala (power)
That's eight characteristics possessed by every human being, as the driver of carrying out the activity, the lead wheel of life.

6. Flowers.
Flowers are a symbol / Nyasa, peace, sincerity.
At the wheel of this life we lead should always be based on the sincerity of the heart and can always bring peace to every man.

7. Rampai flowers.
Rampai potpourri will be placed on the arrangement / sequence of flowers on a canang, flower potpourri has a meaning as a symbol / Nyasa wisdom. Flower potpourri of words have two meanings, namely: flowers means flowers and potpourri mean all kinds, in accordance with the direction pengider-ideran flower potpourri in place in the middle as the symbol brumbun color, because it consists of a variety of flowers. From all kinds of flowers, not all have a fragrant odor, there is also a flower that has no odor, so also in this life we lead, not forever we will be able to enjoy the fun sometimes also we will be crushed by adversity, we will never be able to avoid two-dimensional life. For this reason we organize in this life. For this reason we organize in this kehiupan should we have the wisdom.

8.Lepa.
Lepa or boreh miyik is as a symbol / Nyasa as a good attitude and behavior.
Miyik cream / scrub the fragrant, herbal plainly cursing someone, would be applied to the skin, so scrubs outside properties that can be watched by everyone. Which can be viewed or watched by others is our behavior, because prilakunyalah someone will be called good or bad, someone will say well if he is always doing good, and vice versa if someone is going to say bad in always doing things that are not good. Miyik cream as a symbol / Nyasa good deeds.

9.Perfume.
Perfume / miyik-miyikan as a symbol / Nyasa peace of soul or self-control, perfumes are usually filled on a canang. As a symbol / Nyasa in arranging our lives and this life should be run with equanimity and good self-control, I suppose like still water, in the water that we will be able to look deep into the water, any small objects that exist in water we can see it easily. So also in this life we live, with peace of mind and a steady self-control we will be able to complete all the burden of this life.

Canang are essentially a manifestation of our representatives to appear before Him.
If we can grasp and appreciate and implement in daily life, such as what is contained within the meaning Canang sari above, we wll definitely be accepted by him and we can navigate this life with peace noetic scale.
Because a religious doctrine is not only sufficient for impregnated or lived alone, but must be practiced in real life everyday in society.

Ground Zero Monument

Monument 'Ground Zero' is a monument built to commemorate the intended victims of the Bali bomb blast I, October 12, 2002. This monument to commemorate the victims of the Bali Bombing 199-202 of the Sari Club and Paddy's Cafe in Jalan Legian.

The monument is ground zero in Bali is easy to achieve. This monument is located on Jalan Legian Kuta area is crowded by Cafe, Club as well as shops and a five-star hotels. Legian street and is a very crowded area at night. And at night may be the densest area by either tourists who visit the club or cafe, or just shopping along the Legian street.

Jinggo Rice

Culinary tourism in Bali there are many choices, ranging from Lawar, Pork roll, Chicken Betutu, and others.
Jinggo Rice is one typical Balinese food, small packages of cooked rice similar to "cat rice" in Yogyakarta, only the difference is the Jinggo Rice wrapped in banana leaves and super spicy taste.

 Jinggo Rice that contains no meat chicken or beef. Usually the Jinggo Rice contains a little side dish with chicken or beef, some noodles, tempeh little dry, a little serundeng, and quite a lot of sauce.

Sharing Intangible Heritage of Korea with the World- Click for Details

The Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea (CHA) produces DVDs on intangible cultural heritage of Korea inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List.

 DVDs will be distributed to relevant organizations and researchers in Korea and overseas; public online access will be provided as well. It is expected to help understanding on intangible cultural heritage of Korea further contributing to create a higher brand value of Korea.

Bali Travel Tips and Tricks For Tourists

Browse through any of the well known travel magazines and you're sure to find Bali, Indonesia, listed among the top 10 travel destinations in the world. With its exotic blend of ancient culture, majestic scenery, the world's finest hotels and the warmth of the tropical oceans surrounding the island paradise, it's hardly surprising.

 

Bali is located in the Indonesian archipelago only eight degrees south of the Equator. The island measures 90 kilometres (55 miles) from north to south and 140 kilometres (90 miles) from east to west, making it easy to go out for an excursion anywhere in Bali and return to your hotel by nightfall.

Towering volcanic peaks that rise mystically through the clouds, terraced rice paddies carved into the mountainous landscape, iridescent crater lakes, lush tropical rain forests and sandy white beaches lapped by warm ocean currents are only a few of the wonders that draw millions of visitors to this tiny island each year.

Bali Tricks for First Time Travellers Let's look at some valuable travel tips to help you experience the very best that Bali has to offer:
Bali's tropical weather means that travel at any time of the year is suitable, however its best to check when the major Indonesian holiday periods and religious ceremonies occur to avoid the influx of domestic tourists.
Bali accommodation offers superb value, particularly if you are travelling on a budget. To ensure you get the best value for money, book ahead.
Getting around in Bali can be quite an experience, to say the least! Road rules are nonexistent and traffic can be downright dangerous. Don't assume that traffic will stop for you at a pedestrian crossing if you are on foot. If you are driving, the best piece of advice is to paraphrase a famous saying, "When in Bali, drive like the Balinese."
Many of the luxury Bali hotels and villas will organize a driver for you, or you may choose to hire a bicycle if you don't have far to travel.
As a tourist, you are bound to be hassled by local drivers shouting "Transport?" wherever you go. If you wish to hire a local driver, make sure he is clear about where you want to go and arrange a fixed price before you get in the car. Drivers are keen to barter with you, so it is customary to bargain until you get a price you are comfortable with.
And while we're on the subject of bartering, it's perfectly acceptable to barter in the local markets and stalls, but don't try it in the larger department stores - the sales assistant may be quite offended.
Hawkers will descend on you from the moment you step outside your hotel, particularly if you are located in one of the major tourist areas. Although it may seem rude to you, the best advice is to ignore them altogether. Don't make eye contact or slow down to look at the merchandise they are selling unless you are interested in purchasing something, or being distracted for what may seem an eternity trying to get rid of them.
Beware of counterfeit goods unless that is what you're looking for. Bali is well known for its knock-offs and you can buy anything from fake Rolex's to fake Rayban's at the local markets.
It's likely you may be offered illicit drugs in the highly populated tourist spots. Ecstasy, pot, yabba (crystal meth) and shabu-shabu (methamphetamines) are the most popular drugs on offer in nightclubs and on the beaches, particularly in the Kuta area.
If you don't want to become another high-profile drug case, simply ignore the offers.
Bali locals are among the most friendly and relaxed people you will find anywhere in the world, but that doesn't mean you can drop your guard when it comes to scams and rip-offs.
Be wary of moneychangers who offer you amazingly good rates for exchanging foreign currency, touts who offer you the cheapest ride to your destination without confirming a fixed price and anyone who wants the money before handing over the goods.
And perhaps the best tip for new travelers to Bali is the one that is bound to be least successful -- don't look like a tourist!
This sage piece of advice is written almost tongue-in-cheek because the diminutive, friendly Balinese bear no resemblance whatsoever to their much larger framed Western neighbours. Not only that, our cultures are vastly different and so is our language.

The most you could possibly hope for is to look like an ex-pat from your native country who has chosen to live an idyllic lifestyle on the island. However, a couple of words of Bahasa will help with that "Oh, I've lived here for years" attitude. Selamat pagi (good morning), tolong (please) and terima kasih (thank you) will take you a long way in East-West relations.

Traditional Javanese Wedding Ceremony - Javanese Wedding Ideas

The nation of Indonesia is a land of many cultures. There are thought to be more than three hundred languages and cultures that make up the lives of the two hundred million people living there.

Indonesia herself is made up of more than 13,677 separate islands. Because of the wide variety of cultures, this has made an impact on ceremonies of marriage that are performed there. Every Indonesian wedding has a particular ceremony that is based on the family's cultural beliefs. The ceremony of marriage is not just a joining of two people, but a bond between the two families as well.


Before the Wedding

It is said that the mutual and sincere love that exists between a man and woman should ideally end in marriage. There are places in Indonesia where a couple marries because their parents wish it or because they themselves do. An ancient proverb of Java says, "Love grows as you get more used to each other." This is a lesson we can take for the present.

The Siraman Ceremony of Marriage

The word Siraman in English can be translated to mean to take a bath. The couple participating in this ritual strive to clean their bodies and souls. This ritual usually takes place in the afternoon, the day before, at the house of the bride for her, and at his home for the groom. The people who participate in bathing the couple is also very important. Elder woman are especially prized for the impeccable behavior and morals they display. When giving Siraman, there are usually up to only seven people involved.

Another important aspect of this Javanese ritual is the offering or the Sajen. The meaning of this is deep and symbolic. It is the request for protection from the Creator, our God. It is the way that ancestors are remembered so their souls live in eternal peace and to ask them for their blessings.

Find Out More

A Javanese wedding ceremony is rich in symbolism and rituals and it a beautiful event in which to participate. If you are interested in finding out more about the cultural traditions along with the proper rituals that accompany it, do your research on the internet or by asking your friends and relatives of Indonesian descent. It will surely please the families involved as well as the couple who are ready to take their marriage vows.

Cast gold pectoral of a chief or priest

Popayan AD 1100-1500
Colombia, South America
Ethno 1938 7-6.1

Many centuries before any European contact, native American goldsmiths had independently discovered and developed all the principal techniques of gold-working, including hammering casting and gilding. Casting techniques were in widespread use by the first millennium AD and feature prominently in the varied regional traditions of Colombia. Continuous experimentation also led to the development of different alloys. The most common of these was a blend of gold and copper known as tumbaga that had a lower melting point than pure gold and was less brittle than pure copper. This meant that it could be more easily worked to fashion complex objects such as this pectoral that was made using the lost-wax method. Although the striking plumed headdress worn by the central figure might appear at first sight to have been made with wire filigree, the grooves were in fact carved on the surface of the original wax model. The spectacular feathered headdress is complemented by a distinctive crescent form beneath the feet that represents the fan of tail feathers typical of powerful raptorial birds. Together these allude to the notion of shamanic flight – the visionary soul quests undertaken by learned priests and leaders in search of hidden spirit knowledge. In this case the central figure has two hybrid creatures clinging to his upper arms, and is flanked by four small avian attendants who will accompany him on his journey.  

Hammered gold mask with nose ornament

Calima AD 600-1500
Colombia, South America
H17.0, W20.0, D6.0 cm
Ethno Am88 7-17.1

Gold had a profound symbolic significance in Amerindian beliefs. As an enduring and incorruptible substance that resists decay, gold alluded to the enduring spiritual knowledge of wise leaders and priests. Sixteenth-century Spanish chroniclers record their fascination with the profusion of gold jewellery worn by indigenous chiefs and priests. Legends told of a man who was covered in gold dust - El Dorado or 'the gilded one'. He was then said to bath in a lake during an annual ceremony in the course of which offerings of other magnificent gold objects were made. Gold face masks that have survived suggest that these tales may derive their inspiration from rites that did actually take place in different contexts and settings. Whether worn in life or accompanying the deceased into the afterlife, such gold objects came to embody deeply held beliefs about an invisible spirit world that exists parallel to and beyond the visible world of physical appearances. The Spanish conquistadores also valued gold but in a very different way, since they sought personal wealth and enrichment. The sight of sacred indigenous objects spurred their ruthless pursuit of the precious metal and much of the gold was forcibly obtained from their owners or looted from tomb and graves to be melted down and taken back to Spain to be used as coinage.

Nephrite Hand club

Maori. Bay of Islands, North Island, New Zealand.
Nephrite
L43.0 cm
Christy Collection: gift of Sir C.H. Read
Oc1896,-.929

This hand club was one of four objects given by Titore, a Maori chief of the Ngapuhi tribe, to F.W. Sadler, of the HMS Buffalo. The Buffalo sailed regularly between Sydney and the Bay of Islands, North Island of New Zealand in the 1830s. The club was later sold by Sadler's grand-daughter to C.H. Read.

Maori weapons, and short clubs (mere) in particular, were made in several forms ideal for close range fighting. They were made of stone, wood or whalebone: those made of nephrite were the most prestigious. Maori value nephrite for its strength and its ability to keep a sharp cutting edge, as well as for its beauty. Such clubs were often given personal names, and were regarded as heirlooms.

A warrior would use the club in either hand, wielding it like a cleaver with a slicing motion to strike at an adversary's head or neck. When not in use, the mere was carried tucked into the folds of the man's belt, safe yet always at hand. The perforation at the butt end would be for a wrist strap, often a plaited flax fibre cord or a thong.

Royal portrait statue

Democratic Republic of Congo, Kuba, late 18th century
Wood
H5.0m, W21.0, D22.0 cm
Emil Torday collection
Ethno 1909, 5-13.2

Kuba kings are traditionally commemorated by 'portraits' that were carved to represent principles of kingship and celebrate the reign of individual members of the ruling dynasty. The earliest of these is associated with the founder of the Kuba kingdom, Shyaam aMbul aNgoong, who lived in the early sixteenth century.

Although called 'portraits' these are not likenesses of the individual ruler but rather spirit doubles often produced after the physical death of the individual ruler. They were kept in the royal palace and were used to maintain the spiritual influence of the king when he was on a journey or to incubate in an incoming king the spirit of his royal predecessors. This was done by rubbing the figure with camwood and palm oil to release the royal essence encapsulated in the object.

Each king figure is identified by the emblem which is carved on the plinth. Kings are associated with innovation and invention. Thus a figure of a king associated with iron-working is characterised by the addition of tan icon of an anvil. Here the image is of a drum and is associated with King MishaaPelyeeng aNce, who ruled in the late eighteenth century. It is thus amongst the oldest documented wood sculptures from Africa that survives. The other features of the figure - the hat, sword, belt and armlet - are all standard items of royal regalia which are found on all the king figures.

Pair of Mosque lamps

Egypt, Mamuk dynasty, about 1350-5
Glass, enamelled and gilded
H35 cm
Slade Bequest; Godman Bequest
S.333(OA+521); 1983.497

namelled and gilded glass lamps, hung from chains were commissioned in large numbers for the many mosques built in Cairo by the Mamluk Sultans and their Amirs. They provided light by means of a wick placed in a container of oil within the lamp. Many, including these examples, are inscribed with verses from the Qur'an (24:35) highlighting the symbolic nature of the lamp.

God is the Light of the heavens and the earth;
the likeness of His Light is as a niche wherein is a lamp
(the lamp in a glass,
the glass as it were a glittering star)
kindled from a Blessed Tree,
an olive that is neither of the East nor of the West
whose oil wellnigh would shine, even if no fire touched it

The lamps are also decorated with a bold inscription frieze containing the name and titles of Sayf al-Din Shaykhu al-Nasiri, an important patron of art and architecture in Cairo. His heraldic device incorporating a red cup appears in the centre of the roundels on the neck and the underside of the lamp.

Standing Buddha

South Asia, 2ndcentury, Kushan
From ancient Gandhara, Takht-i-Bahi, North West Frontier Province, Pakistan
Grey schist
H92 cm
1899.7-15.1

This standing Buddha is from ancient Gandhara, the region around Taxila and Peshawar in the North West Frontier Province of Pakistan. The area was a major centre of Buddhism under the Kushan rulers. During the time of king Kanishka (c. 126-151), the likely date of this image, the Fourth Council was convened, an event which laid the foundation for the spread of Buddhism into Central Asia and China.

Treasures of the World's Cultures

It's where civilization's very first tools from Africa, crafted nearly 2 million years ago, can be found along with contemporary art from all around the world. Zhao Caixia, a real estate company clerk, had a memorable time on Saturday at the Capital Museum in western Beijing.

"One of the first, lucky visitors to British Museum's 'Treasures of the World's Cultures' exhibition, I was thrilled to have the rare chance to listen to the wonderful lectures given by directors of the two museums," she recalled.

"I may pay a second visit to the Capital Museum for a careful look at the precious exhibits since, for the time being, I find no time to travel afar to cities like London, Paris and New York to satisfy my curiosity for prestigious art museums."

British Museum's touring "Treasures of the World's Cultures" exhibition opened on March 18 at a 1,400-square-meter hall in the newly-built Capital Museum. It will run through June 5.

Co-sponsored by Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and the Hong Kong-based Standard Chartered Bank, the exhibition is "the first fruit of a cultural exchange programme between the two museums, which was settled in September 2005 when Wang Qishan, mayor of Beijing, was visiting London," Guo Xiaoling, director of the Capital Museum, told China Daily.

And it is the first time that the world's oldest national public museum is showcasing part of its collections in Beijing.

Sutton Hoo helmet replica

Steel, tinned and gilded electrotypes
Tower of London Armouries and British Museum 1973
Circumference at brow level: 74cm
British Museum SHR 2

The replica is based on the fragmentary helmet found in Mound 1 at Sutton Hoo, excavated in 1939. Like the original helmet, it is made with a cap forged from a single piece of iron to which deep ear-flaps and neck-guard are attached with leather hinges. A realistic facemask, pierced with two holes beneath the nose to enable the wearer to breathe, is attached to the front of the cap. The surface of the helmet is covered with decorative panels, two filled with sinuous zoomorphic interlace and two with figural scenes. One of these scenes depicts a pair of warriors, wearing horned helmets and holding spears and short swords or daggers. The other shows a mounted warrior riding down a fallen, mail-clad warrior who stabs upwards at the horse as it rides over him. This scene has its roots in the Roman period, but the origin of the dancing warrior scene is unknown although its distribution in Eastern England and Sweden suggests that it belongs within Scandinavian mythology.

The Sutton Hoo helmet is one of only four helmets found in early Anglo-Saxon England. Each is quite different from the other, suggesting that helmets were not made to a common design, but were individually made by master smiths for a high status patron. Structurally, with its single piece cap, ear-flaps and facemask, the Sutton Hoo helmet is unique, but its surface decoration and indeed the themes of the two figural panels have close parallels in the high status grave-fields in Uppland, Sweden. Similarities between the helmets – and the shields – from these grave-fields and Sutton Hoo suggest that while the helmet was made in Anglo-Saxon England, the metalsmiths who made it may have come from Sweden.

Ivory pyxis

Egypt, 5th century AD
Elephant ivory
H7.7, W9.4 cm
PE 1877.7-6.1

The pyxis is split in two and missing its lock-plate. Underneath a baldachin stands the figure of Daniel flanked by two lions. To his left an angel holds the prophet Habakkuk by the hair to take him to Babylon with a basket of pottage for Daniel. To his right is a helmeted figure holding a staff and an angel and a ram tied to a tree. This is the ram sacrificed by Abraham in Isaac's place.

A pyx was an ivory box decorated with either mythological and pastoral scenes, or with Christian scenes. Their functions probably varied: some may have had an entirely secular function as a container for jewellery, others may have contained the Eucharistic wine or medications.

Ivory pyx with pastoral scenes

Egypt, 6th century
Elephant ivory
H10.5, D13.6 cm
Collection of Vicomte de Janzé, Paris. Given by A.W. Franks in 1866.
P&E 66.7-14.1

Pyxis is a modern term (from the Greek for a 'box') for a circular container cut from a section of an elephant tusk. The pyx is carved with the figures of two seated goatherds, one playing a pipe, the other a cymbal; between them is a hut, with a recumbent goat below. On the other side are two shepherdesses, one holding a basket of fruit, the other playing a pipe; between them are two sheep. About twenty examples of pyxides decorated with mythological or pastoral scenes have survived from the early Byzantine period. They may have had a secular rather than a liturgical function, such as a box for jewellery or a container for incense.

Statue of Dionysos

Lybia, Roman, 2nd century AD
Cyrene, Temple of Dionysos
Large-grained, white marble
H171 cm
GR 1861.7-25.2 (BM Cat Sculpture 1476)

This beautiful statue was discovered in Cyrene, a Greek colony on the Mediterranean shore of modern Libya that continued to thrive under the Roman Empire. It depicts Dionysos, the god of wine, who can be recognised by his characteristic attributes, an ivy wreath and a bunch of grapes.

His head is turned to the right and long strands of hair fall over his shoulders. The god wears sandals and a long himation (mantle) that is draped over his left shoulder and back and then forward and over his raised left arm, but leaves his soft yet muscular torso and genitals exposed. The deep folds of the himation are carved in fine detail. The back of the statue, though worked, appears flat, indicating that it was meant to stand in a niche or against a wall. It must have been made by skilled sculptors of the second century AD after an earlier Greek work of the third century BC.

Like almost all ancient sculpture, the statue was originally at least partly painted; traces of red colour are preserved in the eyes and the wreath. In antiquity the body itself would have been left untouched except for small details like the nipples, so that the soft, skin-coloured surface of the marble would have contrasted beautifully with the painted drapery.

With the statue were found a statue of a panther with a collar of vine leaves, which usually accompanies the god, and a pedestal, on which the statue is thought to have stood. The building in which it was discovered has been identified as the Temple of Dionysos.

Silver Tyche (Personification) of Antioch

Rome, second half of the 4th century AD
Silver and gilt
Found at the foot of the Esquiline Hill, in Rome, Italy.
H14cm
Acquired as part of the Blacas Collection in 1866.
PE 1866.2-29.22

The Esquiline Treasure

These objects are all from the "Esquiline treasure" found by workmen in 1793 whilst digging at the foot of the Esquiline Hill in Rome. The treasure comprises silver caskets, vessels, plate and ornaments and is one of the largest and most important silver hoards to have survived from Late Antiquity. The treasure was originally owned by an eminent Roman family. A gilded monogram on several dishes identifies this family as that of the Turcii. The owners would appear to have been Turcius Secundus and Projecta Turcii, who were married from 379 to 383. Projecta's name appears on one of the silver caskets and is famous for its Christian inscription: 'Secundus and Projecta, live in Christ'.

Portrait-head of Euripides

Italy, Roman, 1st century AD
Marble
H35 cm (total), H31 cm (head)
Castellani Collection
GR 1879.7-12.1 (BM Cat Sculpture 1833)

Euripides (c. 485/480- 407/406 BC) was one of the three leading playwrights of Classical Athens. His tragic plays often reflected current events, filtered through the medium of classical myths, as well as key aspects of the human condition. Euripides wrote 92 plays, of which 18 survive entire and others in fragments. During his lifetime, plays were performed only once as part of a competition during religious festivals in honour of the god Dionysos.

Under the Athenian statesman Lykourgos, in about 330 BC, bronze statues of the three tragedians were set up in the Theatre of Dionysos in Athens to celebrate the great achievements of the city's golden age. It is possible that this portrait is copied after the statue of Euripides in the theatre, although some feel that it might be after a later version. Euripides is depicted as a respected older citizen, with a full beard and thinning hair. In accordance with conventions of the time, no reference is made to his profession.

The head is remarkably well preserved. It was made for insertion into a statue, probably in the first century AD. The provenance of the sculpture is unknown, but it may well have graced the villa of a Roman noble, where portraits of poets and philosophers were displayed to demonstrate the refined intellectual tastes of the wealthy owner.

Bust of Antinous

Italy, Roman, 2nd century AD
Rome, Janiculan Hill
Parian Marble
H60 cm (total), H34 cm (chin to crown)
Townley Collection
GR 1805.7-3.97 (BM Cat Sculpture 1899)

This fine marble bust depicts Antinous (c. AD 110-130), companion of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. A youth from Bithynia, an area in the northwest of modern Turkey, he had first come to the attention of the Emperor during Hadrian's travels in the East. His grace and beauty soon made him the Emperor's favourite. While accompanying him on a journey up the Nile, Antinous was tragically drowned. A romantic legend soon sprang up, suggesting he had given his life for Hadrian. The Emperor, devastated by this loss, in turn declared Antinous a god and his cult spread, particularly through the eastern empire.

Court-artists created an official image of Antinous, based mostly on Classical Greek statues of gods combined with individual, though highly idealised portrait features. This bust shows his head slightly inclined and turned to the left, his smooth face sensuous and with full lips. His coiffure is made up of a lively mass of long locks of hair, around which he wears a wreath of ivy, an attribute of the god Dionysos. The head in fact once belonged to a statue showing Antinous in the guise of this deity, and was only set into a bust in the eighteenth century.

Bust of the Emperor Hadrian

Italy, Roman, 2nd century AD
Rome, formerly in the Villa Montalto
Greek Marble
H60 cm (total), H27cm (chin to crown)
Townley Collection
GR 1805.7-3.94 (BM Cat Sculpture 1897)

Hadrian's reign (AD 117-138) was characterised by a peaceful consolidation of the Roman Empire after the aggressive expansion under his predecessor Trajan. In Britain, he was responsible for the creation of Hadrian's Wall, a magnificent border fortification against the barbarians in the north, both of military value and potent symbolic significance. Hadrian travelled widely and was known as a great lover of Greek culture. He was also the first Roman Emperor to sport a beard, a fact often explained by reference to his philosophical outlook and love of Greek role models. This fashion was eagerly adopted by his subjects throughout the Empire.

This bust found in Rome but made of Greek marble, shows the Emperor in heroic nudity with his head emphatically turned to the left. His elegant coiffure and beard are rendered mostly with the chisel. The eyes show incised irises and drilled pupils, a fashion first adopted on portrait sculpture in these years.