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Research Article
From the Baroque Dance Suite to the High Classical Symphony
Hal M. Switkay*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
74-80
Received:
19 June 2025
Accepted:
9 July 2025
Published:
28 July 2025
Abstract: The origin of the Classical symphony has long been a mystery. The Baroque dance suite and the concerto were popular musical forms in the 17th century and early 18th century, both consisting of collections of shorter musical pieces. Those who listen to classical music are left to wonder whether the Classical symphony arose spontaneously, or rather grew organically from pre-existing musical forms. We chose to compare the new musical form, the Classical symphony, with the pre-existing musical forms. Using quantitative methods, we propose a tentative explanation for the origin of the Classical symphony in the structure of the Baroque dance suite. We study the components and ordering of 423 movements in 70 dance suites by six prominent Baroque composers. The most common elements of these suites appear to carry part of the evolution of the symphony from its early manifestation as incidental music for operas. The Baroque dance suite explains the transition from the early three-movement symphony to its high Classical four-movement structure. This allows us to see the Classical symphony as a continuation and specialization of the popular Baroque dance suite. It further opens a door to aspiring symphonic composers to find inspiration in the Baroque dance suite, to revitalize this popular musical form.
Abstract: The origin of the Classical symphony has long been a mystery. The Baroque dance suite and the concerto were popular musical forms in the 17th century and early 18th century, both consisting of collections of shorter musical pieces. Those who listen to classical music are left to wonder whether the Classical symphony arose spontaneously, or rather g...
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Research Article
The Mythology Behind the Creation of Blambangan Keris and Its Influence on the Creative Industry
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
81-87
Received:
14 May 2025
Accepted:
3 June 2025
Published:
6 August 2025
Abstract: Given its meaningful and artistic values, Indonesian keris has been recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage. However, contrary to the values in Indonesian culture, many view keris as a mystical object and even consider it an infidel. Keris manifests power and strengths. This interpretation needs to be restored to preserve the cultural meaning associated with keris. The inquiry on the mythological code/symbol of keris is a follow-up research from previous theses (Myth of Mahesa Sura; Toponymy of the Ancient Nusantara Perspective; and Batik Mythology, Meaning of Code, Function, and Strengthening of its Industry (Oral Tradition Perspective), which points to the relevance of mythological symbols in batik and keris. The present study highlights the critical role of triangulating findings about the power of ancient kings manifested in the Blambangan keris. It aims to disseminate findings on (1) the mythology of the creation of Blambangan keris, (2) the meaning embedded in the Blambangan keris motifs, and (3) the function of keris in Blambangan tradition, from the Indonesian oral tradition lens. This study was conducted using a qualitative-critical ethnographic design with a multi-interdisciplinary approach covering mythology, toponymy, semiotics, linguistics, archeology, and arts. Data were garnered through (a) documentation, (b) observation, (c) free-in-depth interviews. The data were analyzed usingcritical ethnography theory coupled with interactive flow model analysis with modifications. This study portrayed a comprehensive narrative about the mythology of the kings in Indonesia based on existing cultural products, especially keris. It corroborates previous studies noting that the symbols on the Blambangan keris indicate that Medang Kawulan existed and that Blambangan was established in Jember region, East Java. Keris mythology can inform the development learning resources and the Indonesian keris industry. This becomes increasingly crucial as keris has experienced economic secularization (profane) into freely traded goods such as replicas, displays, ornaments, and merchandise, leading to the segregation between keris and family/ancestor/lineage symbols.
Abstract: Given its meaningful and artistic values, Indonesian keris has been recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage. However, contrary to the values in Indonesian culture, many view keris as a mystical object and even consider it an infidel. Keris manifests power and strengths. This interpretation needs to be restored to preserve the cultural mea...
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Research Article
Exploring the Dilemmas of Cultural Communication Through Xu Bing’s Calligraphy
Gu Siyang*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
88-94
Received:
15 July 2025
Accepted:
25 July 2025
Published:
25 August 2025
Abstract: This article explores the dilemmas of cultural communication through the lens of Xu Bing’s groundbreaking calligraphic art. Chinese calligraphy, rooted in the unique structure of Chinese characters, serves as both a visual and cultural symbol, traditionally valued for its abstract beauty and expressive potential. Xu Bing’s art, especially his New English Calligraphy and works such as Book from the Sky and A Case Study of Transference, innovatively combines Eastern and Western elements, challenging the conventional boundaries of language and culture. By deconstructing and reconstructing written language, Xu Bing addresses issues of cultural identity, miscommunication, and globalisation, creating artworks that invite diverse audiences to reconsider the role and meaning of text. His practice reflects not only a critique of cultural ideology but also a methodological transformation required by contemporary society. Through the transformation and fusion of artistic languages, Xu Bing’s work exemplifies how art can serve as a bridge across cultures, fostering dialogue and understanding in an increasingly globalised world.
Abstract: This article explores the dilemmas of cultural communication through the lens of Xu Bing’s groundbreaking calligraphic art. Chinese calligraphy, rooted in the unique structure of Chinese characters, serves as both a visual and cultural symbol, traditionally valued for its abstract beauty and expressive potential. Xu Bing’s art, especially his New E...
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Editorial
The Correlation Between Forensic Identification of Academic Papers and Calligraphy and Painting Identification
Li Zhenzhen*,
Zhang Hanwen,
Ren Xiaoli,
Lu Maoyue,
Song Zhuo
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
95-98
Received:
24 July 2025
Accepted:
6 August 2025
Published:
26 August 2025
Abstract: There are certain commonalities and differences between document forensic examination and calligraphy and painting authentication. A large part of the authentication of the authenticity of calligraphy and painting can be solved through the methods of document forensic examination. For example, the authenticity of the constituent elements in calligraphy and painting, such as poetry, calligraphy, painting, seal, and paper, overlaps with document forensic examination. Calligraphy and painting authenticators should possess certain professional knowledge and technical means of document forensic examination. However, the scope of calligraphy and painting authentication is broader than that of document forensic examination, also including cultural background, structural characteristics, stylistic traits of the artists, and mounting of the calligraphy and painting. With the continuous improvement of forgery techniques in calligraphy and painting, traditional authentication methods of calligraphy and painting cannot meet the current development trend of authentication. How to improve the scientificity and objectivity of calligraphy and painting authentication? The author believes that theoretical methods of calligraphy and painting authentication should be innovated, traditional inspection methods should be updated, and modern instruments should be utilized for systematic authentication and scientific methods to continuously improve the level of calligraphy and painting authentication. The author explores how to enhance the professionalism of calligraphy and painting authenticators, improve the scientificity and objectivity of calligraphy and painting authentication, and how document forensic examiners authenticate calligraphy and painting.
Abstract: There are certain commonalities and differences between document forensic examination and calligraphy and painting authentication. A large part of the authentication of the authenticity of calligraphy and painting can be solved through the methods of document forensic examination. For example, the authenticity of the constituent elements in calligr...
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Research Article
The Examined Life in Practice: A Genealogy of Philosophical Self-Care
Mohammed Zeinu Hassen*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
99-103
Received:
30 July 2025
Accepted:
11 August 2025
Published:
29 August 2025
Abstract: Philosophical counseling is a contemporary practice that applies philosophy to personal dilemmas. Many people perceive it as a modern invention, but this article challenges that perception by tracing the history of philosophy as a practical art of living. The central thesis is that philosophical counseling is not a new field but a revival of philosophy’s original purpose, which was largely eclipsed by the professionalization of academia and the rise of psychology. This history begins with Socrates, who positioned self-examination as the key to a worthwhile life. The article then explores the Hellenistic schools, Stoicism, Epicureanism, and Skepticism, which explicitly functioned as therapies for the soul, offering frameworks to achieve tranquility and human flourishing. The article follows this tradition into the Middle Ages, where it was sublimated into theology, with figures like Boethius using philosophy as a consolation for suffering. A humanistic revival occurred in the Renaissance with thinkers like Montaigne. The Modern Era saw a great divergence, as philosophy became an increasingly abstract academic discipline, ceding personal problems to the burgeoning field of psychology. The 20th century, however, saw seeds of a revival. Existentialism and logotherapy refocused on issues of meaning, freedom, and anxiety. Finally, the article details the formal re-emergence of the practice in the late 20th century, as pioneers like Gerd Achenbach and Lou Marinoff re-established philosophy as a direct service to the public. The article concludes that philosophical counseling is a return to its roots, reasserting philosophy’s enduring value as a guide for addressing the fundamental challenges of human existence.
Abstract: Philosophical counseling is a contemporary practice that applies philosophy to personal dilemmas. Many people perceive it as a modern invention, but this article challenges that perception by tracing the history of philosophy as a practical art of living. The central thesis is that philosophical counseling is not a new field but a revival of philos...
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