Pair of Antique Javanese Wayang Golek Shadow Puppets on Stands, Early 20th Century
£450.00
Description
A finely carved pair of Wayang Golek wooden shadow puppets from Java, Indonesia, dating to the early 20th century, now presented on bespoke display stands.
Unlike the flat leather Wayang Kulit, which project shadows through a screen, Wayang Golek are three-dimensional wooden puppets manipulated with rods during performances. These performances drew on the great Hindu epics—the Ramayana and the Mahabharata—as well as local Javanese tales, blending entertainment with moral and spiritual lessons.
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Pair of Antique Javanese Wayang Golek Shadow Puppets on Stands, Early 20th Century
A finely carved pair of Wayang Golek wooden shadow puppets from Java, Indonesia, dating to the early 20th century, now presented on bespoke display stands.
Unlike the flat leather Wayang Kulit, which project shadows through a screen, Wayang Golek are three-dimensional wooden puppets manipulated with rods during performances. These performances drew on the great Hindu epics—the Ramayana and the Mahabharata—as well as local Javanese tales, blending entertainment with moral and spiritual lessons.
Each figure has been carved in expressive detail, with elongated features, stylised costumes, and traces of original polychrome decoration in red, black, and gold. Their commanding presence reflects both their theatrical purpose and their role as bearers of cultural identity. Today, they are recognised as part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, underscoring their global cultural significance.
This particular pair offers dramatic sculptural appeal: the bold colouring, sinuous forms, and fine surface patina make them highly decorative as well as collectible. Whether displayed in a private collection, gallery, or as statement interior pieces, they carry with them the mystery and grandeur of Javanese storytelling traditions.
“These early 20th-century Wayang Golek puppets capture the enduring theatrical artistry of Java. Once animated by the dalang (puppet master) in ritual storytelling, they now stand as sculptural objects of remarkable presence—where carved wood, pigment, and myth converge into timeless works of art.”
Condition Report
The puppets are in good antique condition consistent with their age (early 20th century), with expected signs of wear and age-related surface degradation. Their original character and craftsmanship remain well preserved.
Both figures remain intact, moving limbs have been lost and one puppet has a split but has been repaired with a string and wire stiches
Mounted securely on bespoke black wooden display stands.
No obvious signs of major restoration, repairs, or overpainting.
Measurement
Height: 60 cm / 23.6 inches
Width: 22 cm / 8.7 inches
Depth: 12 cm / 4.7 inches
Weight: 1.5 k.g. / 3.3 lbs
Cleaning, Polishing & Restoration
All our collections have been through our workshop and where possible, we always try to maintain the original finish preserving the patina and colour, some items are sympathetically restored and this is done by our own skilled craftsmen using only traditional methods
We complete a full assessment, re-wire and PAT inspection on all lighting. The full assessment can include general upkeep and updating – Fitting new lamp holders, deep cleaning, minor repairs and replacement of fragile metal pins are all part of our service. Rewiring includes a standard rewire to conform with UK electrical regulations to an adaptation or conversion
