Vintage Javanese Wayang Kulit Shadow Puppet: Kumbhakarna

Note: This puppet is redder than we were able to capture on camera.
 
Wayang Kulit is a traditional form of shadow puppetry originating from Java (where our mother noted this one came from) and Bali in Indonesia. The puppets are made from intricately carved leather, often buffalo hide, and mounted on bamboo or wood sticks. Performers hold them between a light source and a screen, usually accompanied by a gamelan orchestra. 
 
This one-stick articulated puppet represents Kumbhakarna, a prominent character in the Hindu epic Ramayana. As shown in photos, there is much expression that can be done with just one hand.
 
This puppet is showing signs of its age with some warping of the hide. But the paint has held and all joints are working as intended, which is impressive, especially considering we believe this was purchased in Java by the Burr sisters in 1935. 
 
H 19” puppet only x L 10” folded
 
Disclaimer: We have tried to make sure colors shown in photos are representative of the real colors of each item. We have tried to identify all imperfections in descriptions, but we may have missed some. If you are unhappy with your purchase, let us know.