Title
Shadow puppet, Abimanyu
Year/Period
20th century
Region
Java, Indonesia
Dimension
Object size: H59cm 59.5 x 24 cm
Accession No.
XXXX-05143
Collection of
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. Suwanda Suna
This puppet represents the character of Abimanyu (Abhimanyu). He was the young son of Arjuna, the hero of Mahabharata. Mahabharata and Ramayana are among the popular wayang stories performed in the wayang kulit', or leather shadow puppet theatre tradition. Wayang kulit is considered the highest of the 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 feast days and religious ceremonies. It has also been adapted for television and public education campaigns.
