Mapping and Characterization of Minangkabau Embroidery Heritage: Regional Variations in Motifs and Ornamental Compositions in West Sumatra

Abstract

Research on traditional Minangkabau embroidery has documented motifs, techniques, and craft products in individual localities, yet comparative evidence on regional motif forms and ornamental compositions remains limited. This study mapped and compared motif characteristics, ornamental arrangements, and decorative placement across four embroidery centers in West Sumatra: Lima Puluh Kota, Agam, Pariaman, and Solok. An exploratory qualitative approach with a descriptive-comparative design was used to examine 85 previously documented products, comprising 32 from Lima Puluh Kota, 19 from Agam, 28 from Pariaman, and 6 from Solok. Data were drawn from existing research records of observations, interviews, visual documentation, and literature studies and analyzed through identification, classification, and cross-regional comparison. Botanical motifs appeared in all four regional inventories, while their composition and placement varied. Lima Puluh Kota emphasized chrysanthemum and jasmine motifs in free-form patterns; Agam featured rose and hibiscus motifs arranged according to textile type; Pariaman combined floral, geometric, and figurative elements in dense balapak compositions; and Solok concentrated botanical motifs within part of the front textile field. These findings indicate that regional distinctiveness reflects the interaction of motif inspiration, stylization, composition, and placement rather than motif names alone. The study provides a comparative basis for systematic heritage documentation and textile design education while highlighting the need for more balanced regional evidence.