Indonesian Rod Puppets or Wayang Golek

Wayang Golek are wooden doll puppets that are operated from below by rods connected to the hands and a central control rod that runs through the body to the head. The simple construction of the puppets belies their versatility, expressiveness and aptitude for imitating human dance. Today, Wayang Golek is mainly associated with Sundanese culture of West Java. These specimens were presented as mementos to the owners by the Indonesian Consul General during the Rainforest World Crafts Bazaar held in conjunction with the Rainforest World Music Festival.