Title
Shadow puppet, Setyaki
Year/Period
20th century
Region
Java, Indonesia
Dimension
Object size: H68.2cm
Accession No.
XXXX-05204
Collection of
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. Suwanda Suna
This puppet represents the character of the Setyaki (Satyaki), a powerful warrior and strong ally of Kresna (Krishna), the Supreme Being and king of Dwarawati (Dwaravati), in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Mahabharata and Ramayana are among the popular wayang stories performed in the Javanese 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.
