Ethnic Cultures of Asia
Wayang Kulit: Heroes from the Mahabharata
Wayang Kulit: Heroes from the Mahabharata
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Wayang Kulit: Raden Arjuna
Central Java, Indonesia, 20th century (Gift of Mr. Matsumoto Ryo)Asian Gallery (Toyokan) Room 13
June 23, 2026 (Tue) - October 25, 2026 (Sun)As one of Indonesia’s best-known forms of traditional puppet theater, wayang kulit is famous for its elaborate shadow puppets and lively performances. Since the introduction of Hinduism in the 10th century, the storylines for wayang kulit plays have been drawn from Hindu epics, such as the Mahabharata and the Ramayana.
The shadow puppets used in wayang kulit are cut from water buffalo hide, carved with fine chisels, and painted in vibrant colors. The sticks for manipulating the puppets are mostly made from water buffalo horn.
Wayang kulit plays typically last all night as the puppeteer, called a dhalang, maneuvers the puppets, delivers the lines, and even cues the accompanying musicians (gamelan).
Although based on famous epics, performances are not strictly scripted and the dhalang’s improvisations serve to make each show unique.
| Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
| Highlight | Wayang Kulit: Raden Arjuna | Central Java, Indonesia | 20th century | Gift of Mr. Matsumoto Ryo, TK-3546 | |||
| Highlight | Wayang Kulit: Adipati Karna | Central Java, Indonesia | Second half of the 20th century | Gift of Mr. Taeda Tsuyoshi, TK-3494 | |||
| Highlight | Wayang Kulit: Dewi Banowati | Central Java, Indonesia | 20th–21st century | Gift of Mr. Matsumoto Ryō, TK-3548 |