Head of a Wayang Puppet (circa 1942) by Reijer Stolk, Art Print from the Original on Canvas

Public domain art from the original at The Rijksmuseum, digitally enhanced.

Wayang, also known as Wajang, is a traditional form of puppet theatre play originating from the Indonesian island of Java.

Wayang refers to the entire dramatic show' although sometimes the leather puppet itself is referred to as Wayang. Performances of Wayang puppet theatre are accompanied by a Gamelan orchestra in Java, and by Gender Wayang in Bali. The dramatic stories depict mythologies, such as episodes from the Hindu epics the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, as well as local adaptations of cultural legends. Traditionally, a Wayang is played out in a ritualised midnight-to-dawn show by a Dalang, an artist and spiritual leader. People watch the show from both sides of the screen.

Wayang performances are still very popular among Indonesians, especially in the islands of Java and Bali. Wayang performances are usually held at certain rituals, certain ceremonies, certain events, and even tourist attractions. 

Wayang traditions include acting, singing, music, drama, literature, painting, sculpture, carving, and symbolic arts. The traditions, which have continued to develop over more than a thousand years, are also a medium for information, preaching, education, philosophical understanding, and entertainment.

Reijer Johan Antonie Stolk (1896–1945) was a Javanese born Dutch painter, sculptor, graphic artist, inventor and Batik artist. He studied at Haarlem School of Arts and Crafts with inspiring teachers such as Chris Lebeau and Samuel Jessurun de Mesquita. His unique style was greatly inspired by his travel to Africa.

Printed artwork on this premium satin canvas. Host your exhibition, sell merchandise, decorate your home, or make a stunning gift of art. Each pre-stretched canvas comes with a wooden inner frame.

.: 100% Polyester
.: Wooden inner frame
.: Metallic mounts on the back of canvas
.: Horizontal and vertical options available
.: For indoor use
.: Ready to hang
.: Printed on demand and shipped from the UK