Vintage 17" TOGOG Wayang Golek rod puppet, Indonesian Sudanese traditional

...theatre puppet, Hindu A beautifully hand carved and painted wood and fabric rod puppet, as traditionally used in Indonesian / West Javanese puppet theatre. Dressed in patterned Batik fabric with hand embroidered beaded decoration, this doll is in good vintage condition with small signs of age but strong pigments and good detailing. The central rod is removable from the head - this one is a replacement from another puppet and looks slightly long for the head. The body with some scuffing, the batik fabric with 1 or 2 little holes. Dates ca 1950 - 1970s Marked "Togog" on the body; Also known as Batara Antaga. He is said to be the son of a god who was born before Semar , but because he was unable to protect the Earth, Togog returned to his origin; At the same time, Semar was born. Togog was sent to earth as tutors for warriors with bad character (his brother Semar was chosen as a tutor for warriors with good character). Size: ca 43 cm (17") **** THE STAND DOES NOT COME INCLUDED**** Dating back to the 16th century, Wayang golek were used to tell stories of Hindu epics, Javanese histories, and the Islamic Menmak cycle, which recounts the many adventures of Amir Hamzah, Muhammad’s uncle. The dalang, or puppet master, moved the puppets and spoke their parts, often set to the music of a gamelan orchestra. Performances took place in villages during holidays and festivals. This style of theatre has been designated by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage