This puppet represents a king in the Javanese 'wayang kulit' or leather shadow puppet theatre tradition. The status of the character is indicated by his headdress and 'praba' or winged ornament on his back. His downcast gaze and narrow stance reflects his refined character although his round eyes suggest that he is also quite assertive. 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.
