This puppet represents the character Bathara Kamajaya, the God of Love in the Javanese 'wayang kulit' or leather shadow puppet theatre tradition. He is regarded as the most handsome god in Heaven and his marriage to Dewi Ratih, a goddess, is held up as the model for all mortal husbands and wives. His narrow eyes, downcast gaze and narrow stance reflect his refined character.The vast majority of the 'wayang' plays performed are drawn from the two great Hindu epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata as well as local stories of Javanese origin.'Wayang kulit' is considered the highest of the Javanese 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 days and religious ceremonies. It has also been adapted more recently for television and public education campaigns.
