One popular fashion accessory is earrings or "suweng/giwang" in Indonesian. In the past, the Sanskrit term "kundala" was used to refer to earrings. Although this term is no longer commonly used in Old Javanese, Central Javanese, New Javanese, or Indonesian, Kundala is an accessory worn on the earlobe to enhance one's appearance. In the past, there were two types of accessories for the ear: "sumping" and "kundala". Sumping was placed between the earlobe and the side of the head, while Kundala was placed at the bottom tip of the earlobe.



Earring visual traces have been found in Nusantara since the Hindu-Buddhist period and after. Archeological sculptures and temple reliefs are important sources of data to trace the variety of forms, materials, ways of wearing, and functions of Kundala/studs in the past.

There are various forms of Kundala, including those that are quite large and heavy. Although not all types of Kundala are put in the pierced hole, circular Kundala of large size and weight that are placed in the pierced hole can speed up the formation of long earlobes for the wearer.

Long earlobes are not only found among Dayak ethnic groups but have also been found in Javanese men. Although the archaeological traces of large round earrings and their way of use can still be found in Singhasari or Majapahit era sculptures, young male figures such as Punk, Slenk, Rockers, etc. still wear large round earrings that resemble Kundala.

So, the use of Kundala not only occurred in the past but still exists today. Although not commonly used as in the past, this ear accessory remains a choice to add style and self-confidence for its wearers.


M. Dwi Cahyono


Sangkaling. 28 Februari 2023

Griyajar CITRALEKHA