Adapting Formalistic Approach to Analyse Malay Artefact, Kukuran into its Classification

Abstract

Initially the creation of kukuran probably began as a simple seat straddled with a sharp iron
grater protruding at the end. From a simple shape of kukuran, it evolved to more complex styles
of form. The formal analysis is the work of describing and assessing the visual and material
appearance of artworks. This formal analysis stressed the development of a technical language
for description of the art work, so that the analysis can be depicted and addressed. Formal
analysis describes the work of art and trying to understand the artists or craftsmen want to
convey. These visual images are analysed into formalistic and pre-iconographical in order to
reveal to its characteristics. It establishes categories of systematic definitions and thought to
express point of view about the kukuran characteristics. The characteristics of kukuran
constitute the basis for its classification. The analysis embarks on three major stages which are
characteristics extraction, characteristics comparison, and classification techniques. The
characteristics extraction stage captures the visual formal composition qualities of kukuran.
After extracting the required characteristics, the image than been compare to the characteristics
in appropriate manner. Later, these visual images have described and clarifies the visual
composition and vital ornaments representational in order to reveal its significance
characteristics. Finally, these characteristics classified accordingly to its analysis of the
extraction characteristics. Finally, the finding concludes that kukuran forms are divided into
four major groups which are zoomorphic form, anthropomorphic form, modern form and utility
form. It shows the splendid achievement of Malay art form reflected in the form of art physically
and spiritually.