This puppet represents the character Dewa Ruci in the Javanese 'wayang kulit' or leather shadow puppet theatre tradition. He is a Javanese invention from at least as early as the 11th century. He is the personification in miniature of Bima's (Bhima) true self and to whom he expresses great humility.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.
