Tangible and Intangible Expressions of the Local Identity of the Bugis Bone Community: A Study of the Songkok Recca Mosque

Abstract

This research aims to understand and interpret the expression of local identity of the Bugis Bone ethnic group as reflected in mosque architecture, particularly in the Songkok Recca Mosque in Bone Regency. The study employs a qualitative research design and is categorized as field research. The research adopts historical and sociological approaches, supported by auxiliary disciplines such as archaeology and ethnography. Data obtained through observation, interviews, documentation, photovoice, and literature review were analyzed using the stages of ejawantah and Ferdinand De Saussure’s archaeological semiotics. The findings reveal that the ejawantah process of Bugis Bone cultural symbols in the Songkok Recca Mosque undergoes typological realization through an exploration stage, resulting in the manifestation of the local identity of the Bugis Bone community. This identity is visible in various architectural elements, including the roof (shaped like songkok recca), the prayer hall (rakkeang), the mihrab/minbar (timpalaja), the ablution area (symbolized by a kendi), the minaret/floor plan, and decorative ornaments (sulapa’ eppa’). The mosque building functions not only as a place of worship but also as an embodiment of local identity through the integration of Bugis cultural symbols into its architectural elements.