DepartmentAsia

Gajah

NameWayang kulit, shadow puppet

CultureJavanese

Place madeJava, Java, Indonesia, Southeast Asia, Asia

MediumWater Buffalo Hide, Ancur, Water-based Paint, Water Buffalo Horn, Bronze leaf

DimensionsOverall: 25 3/16 x 26 in. (64 x 66 cm)

Credit LineIFAF Collection

Object numberFA.2007.40.189

Collections

Wayang Kuilt: Indonesian Shadow Puppets

DescriptionShadow puppet. Large elephant figure. Gray skin, leaf on tusks, red cap, black saddle blanket. Stands on a red platform.
Artist: Diman (painter)
Place and Date Made: Klaten, date unkown; acquired by Ki Purbo Asmoro in Klaten,1992
Elephant figures can appear in forest scenes and in journey scenes. For example, some kings, such as Baladewa, may travel by elephant. These wayang figures may also be used in battle scenes. This elephant wears chains around its ankle and carries a weapon with its trunk.