This puppet represents the character Rahwana (Rahvana) from the Hindu epic Ramayana performed in the Javanese 'wayang kulit' or leather shadow puppet theatre tradition. Rahwana is the ruler of Alengka and the major protagonist in the Ramayana epic. His coarse and greedy character is reflected in his blue face, forward- looking gaze, wide-open eyes, a sneering mouth and wide stance.The Ramayana relates the struggle of Rama and his brother Lesmana(Lakshamana) in their attempt to rescue his wife, Dewi Sinta(Sita), from the ogre king Rahwana.The vast majority of the 'wayang' plays performed are drawn from the two great Hindu epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata as well as local stories of Javanese origin. 'Wayang kulit' is considered the highest of the Javanese performing arts. Performed in the royal courts of Java as early as the ninth century, this tradition continues to be treasured as one of the 'pusaka' or sacred heirlooms of the court. 'Wayang kulit' is traditionally performed on ritual days and religious ceremonies. It has also been adapted more recently for television and public education campaigns.
