Philosophical Leadership Values of Surakarta Sunanate: A Symbolic Analysis of Dhadhak Merak and Singa Barong Masks in Ponorogo Reyog Performance

This research examines the philosophical values of Surakarta Palace leadership embedded within the Barongan and Dhadhak Merak elements of Reyog Ponorogo performance art. Through qualitative analysis and in-depth interviews with cultural experts, this study  reveals how these performance elementsserve as sophisticated media for intercultural communication between Surakarta Palace and the Panaragan traditional community. The research focuses on how the royal title “Senapati ing Ngalaga Ngabdurrahman Sayidin Panatagama” finds symbolic expression through these performance elements, particularly during the colonial period. The study employs semiotic analysis to decode the symbolic meanings within the physical characteristics of both Barongan and Dhadhak Merak, revealing a complex system of cultural messaging through the palace’s pagedhongan tradition. Findingsindicate that the Barongan’s tiger-head form represents the Senapati ing Ngalaga value, symbolizing leadership strength and courage, while the Dhadhak Merak’s peacock elements embody the Sayidin Panatagama concept, representing wisdom and harmonious governance. The unification of these elements in performance symbolizes the Ngabdurrahman value,demonstrating the balance between strength and wisdom in leadership. This research contributes to understanding how traditional performing arts can function as vehicles for cultural preservation and resistance while maintaining sophisticated systems of philosophical transmission. The study highlights the enduring relevance of traditional Javanese leadership principles and their expression through cultural performance.