Orissa
Wood with traces of polychroming
An articulated wooden puppet from Orissa in the style of Kundhei. This art is performed by puppeteers in groups that travel from village to village performing shows. Kundhei is considered as a dying art form as performers turn to more sustainable forms of income. The costumes of Kundhei resemble those worn by actors of the Jatra traditional theatre.
Puppetry in India can be traced back as early as the Indus Valley civilisation, and has always had a vibrant and ancient tradition of using string puppets or marionettes. String puppets were traditionally made of wood, or wire, or cloth stuffed with cotton, rags or saw dust. Themes for puppet theatre are mostly based on epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata but also include local myths and legends. Puppetry is popular in various state, and each state has slightly varies styles and themes.
Size (cms): 60(H) x 17(W) x 15(D)
Size (inches): 23.5(H) x 6.5(W) x 6(D)
