Title
Shadow puppet, a ruling prince
Year/Period
20th century
Region
Java, Indonesia
Dimension
Object size: H85.9cm
Accession No.
XXXX-05141
Collection of
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. Suwanda Suna
This puppet represents the character of a warrior prince known as Korana in the Javanese wayang kulit, or leather shadow puppet theatre tradition. Puppets like this appear alongside characters from wayang stories that include Hindu epics such as Mahabharata and Ramayana.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.
