An extraordinary piece of Indonesian folk art with traditional leatherworking techniques of Javanese wayang kulit on an entire natural goatskin hide (including the tail). At the center is a hand-painted and extensively pierced detailing worked through the skin itself.
This follows the traditional construction of wayang kulit, in which an artist cuts and punches the decoration using small chisels. The cut-outs are fundamental to the appearance of a traditional shadow puppet. Light passes through and around all the openings and transforms into a moving shadow.
The figure is visible from the flesh side as a ghostly image, outlining the decoration penetrating through the hide. Easily displays on the wall.
Details
Origin: Indonesia, Java
Date: Mid-20th century
Material: Natural goatskin hide, pigments/paint
Decoration: Hand-painted wayang figure with extensive pierced, punched, cut and incised detailing executed through the hide in the manner of traditional wayang kulit leatherwork
Dimensions:Apx: 35 inches Tall × 24 inches Wide
Condition: Vintage condition with wear consistent with age and construction. Natural variation throughout the hide with irregular edges, and some discoloration / surface wear. Irregularities to the perimeter are inherent to the natural hide. Please examine photographs closely.
