Vintage Javanese Wayang Kulit Shadow Puppet (Unpainted)

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 articulated puppet is in very good vintage condition, especially considering we believe this was purchased in Java by the Burr sisters in 1935. There is a fracture on the backside of the central pole as shown in photos, but it has not affecting the puppet’s ability to move as intended. There is also a spot of white on one of the control sticks. 
 
H 16” including handles x L 6 1/2”
 
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.