A Symbolism Study on Architecture and Ornament of Tosan Ward in Pura Mangkunegaran Palace
Bangsal Tosan (Tosan Ward) is one of European Architecture-Style buildings existing in Pura Mangkunegaran palace complex, Surakarta, Central Java. This article discusses the symbolic meaning of Bangsal Tosan’s architecture and ornament. Bangsal Tosan as a European architecture building and a part of Pura Mangkunegaran Palace building. As a European-architecture building, Bangsal Tosan belongs to neoclassical architecture-style building functioning as marquise and symbolizing an independent and sovereign state. As a part of Pura Mangkunegaran Palace building, Bangsal Tosan is a part of pendapa called kuncungan and symbolizes Mangkunegaran as a genuine state led by a legitimate ruler getting God’s mandate. Despite varying meanings, taken together Bangsal Tosan has the same meaning, i.e. as the symbol of Mangkunegaran Ruler’s power and authority.