South Sulawesi, circa 16th–20th Century
The Padewakang Boat Miniature is a replica of the Padewakang Boat originating in South Sulawesi, which was in use from the 16th century to the early 20th century for trading across the archipelago and also to Marege (name for North East Arnhem Land on the northern coast of Australia).
The connection formed between Bugis traders and the Yolngu people marks one of the earliest interactions between Indonesian and Australian communities. For over four centuries, the Bugis and Yolngu engaged in trade, with evidence of their friendship preserved in artworks, including depictions of boats similar to the Perahu Padewakang.
The uniqueness of the Padewakang Boat lies in its construction, which uses no metal elements. Its sails are made from a type of lontar tree, specifically young lanu (Gebang tree) leaves. The sail shape, known as the Tanjaq sail, reflects Austronesian cultural influence.
The Padewakang Boat was used by the Bugis and Makassar people as a trading vessel. They sailed to various parts of the archipelago and beyond, trading commodities such as sea cucumber, spices, and tamarind. This boat symbolizes the maritime prowess of the Bugis people in their trade ventures within the archipelago and abroad.
Inventory Number: 021/MB/005/PM/2021
Material: Wood
Dimensions: Height 120 cm, Length 173 cm
Yulia Andalassari,Tenaga Teknis Penata Pameran, UP., Museum Kebaharian Jakarta, shares the significance of the Padewakang Boat Miniature.
Curators
Arfian Ahmad | Jakarta Maritime Museum
Bayu Niti Permana | Cultural Heritage Protection Division, Jakarta Department of Culture
Yulia Andalassari | Jakarta Maritime Museum
Dhita Amelia | Jakarta Maritime Museum