Pair of Mid-Century Indonesian Wayang Golek Carved Wood Puppets, C. 1950s–60s

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Striking pair of vintage Indonesian Wayang Golek rod puppets, dating approximately to the mid-20th century, circa 1950s–1960s.

Originating from the … Read more Striking pair of vintage Indonesian Wayang Golek rod puppets, dating approximately to the mid-20th century, circa 1950s–1960s.

Originating from the traditional puppet theater of West Java, Indonesia, Wayang Golek figures are three-dimensional carved wooden puppets operated by a central support and individual rods attached to the articulated arms.

This wonderfully decorative pair features hand-carved and hand-painted wooden heads and hands, elaborate painted headdresses, articulated arms, original wooden control rods, and richly detailed textile costumes.

Each figure wears a striped jacket embellished with ornate gold-colored trim, beaded tassel ornaments and a traditional batik-patterned textile lower garment. The two puppets have individually painted facial features and distinct headdresses, giving each its own character while making them especially attractive displayed together.

The articulated construction remains functional, with the long wooden rods allowing the arms to be raised, lowered and posed. Traditional Wayang Golek puppets use precisely this arrangement of articulated wooden arms and manipulation rods.

Condition: Very good vintage condition with age-appropriate wear to the carved wood, painted surfaces and textiles. Minor discoloration, textile wear and small imperfections are present consistent with age and traditional handmade construction. Both retain their wonderful character and display beautifully. Please review all photographs closely for condition.

17” Tall

Materials: Carved and painted wood, batik and woven textiles, thread, beads and mixed media.

Origin: West Java, Indonesia
Period: Mid-20th Century
Circa: 1950s–1960s
Style: Folk Art / Asian / Figurative
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