Typology of early Islamic graves of Mamuju, West Sulawesi

Abstract

A survey was performed in Mamuju in order to obtain information on cultural remains from the early Islamic presence in the area. The variety of forms, styles and the distribution of graves and gravestones relating to the early development of Islam was documented. The survey results showed: a) graves were sometimes lined by rectangular stone beams; and b) gravestones came in a large variety of forms, such as cudgel crowns, kris dagger handles and blocks that were occasionally associated with calligraphic inscriptions. The use of calligraphy on grave features might be linked with the introduction of Islam as one of the two gravestones containing calligraphic inscriptions was erected for an individual remembered for the dissemination of Islam in the region. PreIslamic elements were maintained as well, depicted in the gravestone types such as kris dagger handles and menhirs. This merging of styles and forms reflects the process of integration of two cultural traditions—pre-Islamic and Islamic—in the larger Mamuju region and the development of the persisting ideological system. Show more