Title
Shadow puppet, Karna
Year/Period
20th century
Region
Java, Indonesia
Dimension
Object size: H67.7cm
Accession No.
XXXX-05692
Collection of
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. Suwanda Suna
This puppet represents the character of a warrior prince in the Javanese 'wayang kulit' or leather shadow puppet theatre tradition. Mahabharata and Ramayana are among the popular wayang stories adapted and performed in wayang kulit.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.
