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Theater of Shadows Indo-Filipino Batik Shadow Puppets Painting Signed Ayu

$820
£616.58
€712.96
CA$1,157.25
A$1,255.67
CHF 666.11
MX$15,419.54
NOK 8,237.61
SEK 7,801.01
DKK 5,321.96

About the Item

Theater of Shadows Signed by Ayu, this richly detailed batik painting evokes the ceremonial beauty of Southeast Asia’s Wayang Kulit shadow puppetry. Two stylized figures—one regal and upright, the other kneeling—are rendered in intricate pointillist patterns against a luminous indigo ground. Their elongated limbs, expressive poses, and ornate costumes reflect centuries-old traditions of puppet theater from Java and Bali. While the artist Ayu remains mysterious, the work’s composition and technique suggest a deep reverence for storytelling and ritual performance. The indigo backdrop, stylized figures, and intricate dot motifs were especially popular in decorative batiks sold during the global boho and ethnic decor boom of the 1980s and early '90s. Artist signature: The name Ayu is a common female name meaning "beautiful" in Filipino and Indonesian. It appears on several known batik textiles from the Philippines and Java sold during the '80s and '90s.. A stunning piece for collectors of Asian textiles, theater arts, or spiritual symbolism.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 24 in (60.96 cm)Width: 20 in (50.8 cm)Depth: 2 in (5.08 cm)
  • Style:
    Folk Art (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1980s
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. This is a striking piece of art with its rich bamboo-style frame and deep blue and dark brown shadow figures.
  • Seller Location:
    Lomita, CA
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU6651246087692

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