Wayang golek (2) Javanese (Indonesia) - Wood, Textile - 1970-1980, 1990-2000

Origin: Indonesia (Java)
Ethnic group / culture: Javanese
Indigenous object name: Wayang Golek
Material: Wood, textile, paint and decorative beads
Dimensions: approx. 600 mm height each
Weight: approx. 1500 g (set)
Shipping method: Carefully packed and shipped with track & trace

Set of two traditional Indonesian Wayang Golek wooden puppets.

I purchased these two puppets during a visit to Yogyakarta, Java, from a small local antique shop. They were sold to me as older, used pieces and show visible signs of age and previous use.

Wayang Golek puppets form part of the rich cultural and theatrical tradition of Java, Indonesia. They are traditionally used in rod puppet performances depicting characters from classical stories, mythology and traditional narratives.

Both figures are carved from wood and decorated by hand. They wear textile garments with batik-style patterns and elaborate decorative beadwork. Each puppet has its own distinctive facial expression, headdress, costume and ornamentation.

The puppets have clearly been used and are not new. There are signs of age and wear to the painted wooden surfaces, clothing, joints and decorative elements. These imperfections are part of their character and can be seen in the photographs. Please study all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

The exact age and maker are unknown.

A decorative and characterful pair of Indonesian folk-art puppets, each measuring approximately 60 cm in height.