History of Trade with China: Ceramics and Chinese Communities
History of Trade with China: Ceramics and Chinese Communities
Maritime trade dating back to ancient times. Ming dynasty ceramics, migration of Chinese merchants, and enduring cultural influences.
While Hindu influence is prominent in Balinese culture, a deeper look into its history reveals numerous traces of long-standing interaction with China. For over a thousand years, Bali served as a significant hub in maritime trade routes, visited by Chinese merchants. This extensive history of exchange has left its mark on various aspects of the culture: ancient Chinese ceramics discovered across the island, old Chinese coins ('Pis Bolong') still used in Balinese rituals, and even influences on the appearance of the mythical Barong beast. Furthermore, Chinese immigrants (Tionghoa) who settled in Bali over the centuries formed distinct communities, integrating with local culture while enriching Bali's societal diversity. The history of trade with China highlights an important international dimension of Bali's past.
Ancient Coins and Ceramics Tell Tales of Maritime Trade
Interaction between Bali and China dates back well before the 11th century, far earlier than written records suggest. Tangible proof lies in the widespread use of 'Pis Bolong'βold Chinese coins with square holesβin Balinese offerings (Canang) and decorations. Once used as currency, these coins eventually acquired sacred significance. Additionally, archaeological sites throughout Bali have yielded vast quantities of Chinese ceramics from various dynasties, including Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing. These high-value imported goods were symbols of prestige for Balinese royalty and nobility, indicating their active participation in overseas trade. These artifacts demonstrate that Bali was not an isolated island but an integral part of Asia's extensive trade network.
Cultural Fusion Seen in Barong and Architecture
Chinese cultural influence is also visible in iconic Balinese arts and architecture. For example, the lion-like appearance of the 'Barong Ket,' a symbol of good, is widely believed to have been inspired by the lion figures of Chinese lion dances; their dynamic, sometimes playful movements share certain similarities. In architecture, some older temples and palaces feature walls embedded with Chinese ceramic plates as decoration. Known as 'tempel piring' (plate wall), this practice showcases Balinese culture's flexibility and cosmopolitanism, incorporating beautiful foreign objects into their own sacred spaces.
Formation of Chinese Communities and Coexistence
Throughout history, many Chinese traders settled in Bali. During the Dutch colonial period, significant Chinese communities formed, particularly in the northern port town of Singaraja. As merchants, they contributed to economic development while also intermarrying with local Balinese women, fostering a unique mixed culture (Peranakan culture). Chinese temples known as 'Klenteng,' dedicated to Buddhist or Taoist deities, dot the island, coexisting peacefully alongside Balinese Hindu temples. Occasionally, elements like Chinese dragons (Naga) even appear in Balinese festival processions. This harmonious blend, where two cultures respect and enrich each other, testifies to the tolerant nature of Balinese society.
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