Woodcarving is ornamentation to the traditional Malay houses. The application of carved ornamentation contributes to the identity of the traditional architecture from this region which originated from the architecture of Langkasuka Empire dated as early as 14 century. Carving motif of flora, geometry, Arabic calligraphy and cosmic features are depicted on carved panels of doors, wall, raillings and ventilation components in different shapes and sizes. Flora, geometry and Islamic calligraphy are the three major types of motifs used by Malay woodcarvers. Motif is referred to as recurrent or repeated thematic element and closely related to pattern. The several types of carving motifs, especially flora were applied as identifying features to the woodcarving with specific shapes, sizes and compositions. Several carvings techniques including perforation and incision with relief or non-relief carvings also contribute to the distinctive character of the motifs. Apart from these, intricacy and complexity of the carving motifs and its methods of depiction add to the distinctiveness. Wall, door and window ventilation panels, raillings, bable end and ceiling panels are types of carved components found within the fabric of the houses and usually characterized by the types of carving motifs used and shapes of the panels. Most of these panels were equipped with floral design within the specific carving pattern.
Research from Centre of Research for the Study of Built Environtment in the Malay World at the Department of Architectre in the University Teknologi Malaysia.
