Description

Wayang golek (literally, “rod puppets”) is a traditional form of puppet theatre prevalent in Java, Indonesia.  It dates back to the early 16th century and combines Hindu stories with Buddhist and Muslim ideas and Javanese folklore.  Often the stories depict tales from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, illustrating conflicts culminating in the triumph of good against evil.  Each puppet has a carved and painted head with an elaborate headdress. This puppet wears a batik tulis robe and is characteristic of Princes and Princesses at the Royal court of Cirebon.