Four Clans Statue

Historical Origins and Founding Background

The construction of Patung Empat Marga was initiated during the leadership of Regent Umar Ahmad as part of a large-scale project to build regional character through architecture. Historically, the existence of this statue refers to the division of customary territories in Tulang Bawang, inhabited by four major clans (Margo Pak). These four clans are Marga Buay Bulan, Marga Buay Tegamoan, Marga Buay Suway Umpu, and Marga Buay Aji.

Genealogically, the Lampung Tulang Bawang people believe their ancestors originated from the highlands of Sekala Brak. Large-scale migrations in the past led to the formation of settlements along the Tulang Bawang River (Way). The establishment of this statue in mid-2015 to 2016 aimed to solidify the collective memory of the community, ensuring they do not forget the original social structure that has shaped the customary legal order in the region for centuries.

Monumental Architecture and Construction Details

Unlike conventional monuments which are usually complete statues, Patung Empat Marga adopts the style of a giant relief carved into a stone wall approximately 10 to 15 meters high. The main uniqueness of this site lies in its craftsmanship, involving professional sculptors, where the faces of the figures representing the four clans are carved with highly detailed and firm expressions.

The architectural style blends realism with a contemporary touch. The carved faces wear Kikat or Siger (a typical Lampung head covering), indicating social strata and honor. The primary material used is reinforced concrete with a natural stone texture finish, giving the impression that the faces emerge directly from the earth's cliff. This large-scale relief is often compared by tourists to Mount Rushmore in the United States, but with a strong local wisdom context.

Historical Significance and the Margo Pak Federation

Historically, "Margo Pak" or the Four Clans were pillars of political and social power in Tulang Bawang before Dutch colonialism weakened the customary structure. Each clan had its own customary territory and customary leaders called Penyimbang.

1. Marga Buay Bulan: Known as a clan that played an important role in inter-tribal diplomacy.

2. Marga Buay Tegamoan: Often associated with resilience in defending border areas.

3. Marga Buay Suway Umpu: Has close ties to noble lineage from outside the region who integrated with local culture.

4. Marga Buay Aji: Known as a pillar in the fields of religion and moral legal order.

This site serves as a reminder of a glorious era when these four clans lived side-by-side in a democratic customary governance system, long before the formation of modern government bureaucracy in Lampung Province.

Related Figures and Periods

Although the carved faces do not refer to specific individuals photographically, they represent legendary Penyimbang or customary figures from each clan. The existence of this site is also closely related to the period of transformation of West Tulang Bawang from a new administrative regency into a national cultural tourism destination.

During the design process, the local government involved the customary council to ensure that the attributes worn on the statues, such as headwear motifs and facial lines, did not deviate from the Lampung Pepadun cultural norms. This is important because for the local community, this statue is a representation of their self-esteem and ancestral honor.

Preservation Status and Restoration Efforts

As a contemporary historical site, Patung Empat Marga is managed directly by the West Tulang Bawang Regency Government through the Department of Tourism. The preservation of this site is carried out through routine maintenance of the carved details to prevent moss growth and damage from the extreme tropical weather. The area around the statue has also been arranged into a beautiful public park, serving as an educational space for the younger generation.

The local government consistently ensures that the area around the statue is not eroded by uncontrolled commercial development. This is done to maintain the sacred "aura" and authority of the relief as a center of regional identity.

Cultural and Religious Value

For the Lampung people, especially in Tubaba, Patung Empat Marga holds the philosophical value of "Piil Pesenggiri." This is a moral principle that emphasizes self-esteem, honor, and noble behavior. The statue stands as a reminder that although the Tubaba community is now heterogeneous with many transmigrants from Java and Bali, the original Lampung cultural roots must remain respected and upheld.

Culturally, this site often serves as a starting point or location for processions in certain customary ceremonies, such as welcoming distinguished guests or annual cultural festivals. Although it does not have a specific religious function in Islam (the majority religion of the population), the presence of this statue coexists harmoniously with the architecture of Masjid Baitus Shobur, located not far from it, symbolizing the balance between humanity's relationship with God (religiosity) and humanity with their ancestors (culture).

Unique Facts and Social Impact

One of the unique facts about Patung Empat Marga is its lighting at night. Strategically placed spotlights create a shadow effect that makes the facial expressions on the relief appear more alive and dramatic. This makes it one of the most popular photography subjects in Lampung Province.

Since the establishment of this site, the awareness of local youth regarding their clan's history has increased significantly. Local school curricula often include visits to this site to learn about the Margo Pak social structure. Patung Empat Marga has successfully changed the perception of historical monuments; it is not just an inanimate object, but a visual narrative that continues to tell the story of past glories to future generations.

With all its grandeur and historical value, Patung Empat Marga stands firm as the guardian of West Tulang Bawang's civilization, ensuring that the identity of Lampung's four great clans will remain eternal in the memory of time.