Handmade Rajasthani Kathputli Dancing Puppet Couple Jaipur India 1950s

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Large pair of vintage 1950s string marionettes, these magnificent Rajasthani Kathputli puppets came from the vibrant state of Rajasthan in … Read more Large pair of vintage 1950s string marionettes, these magnificent Rajasthani Kathputli puppets came from the vibrant state of Rajasthan in northwestern India.
Meticulously handcrafted from wood and recycled silk sari fabric adorned in resplendent red and gold hues, they are a testament to the rich artistic tradition of the region.
This enchanting hand made pair features a male puppet skillfully playing the flute alongside a lady dancer. Their movements are brought to life through a complex system of strings that extend from the puppet's head, over the puppeteer's hand, and down to one shoulder, providing an extraordinary range of motion.
Each marionette is a true masterpiece, adorned with intricate fabrics embellished with beads, sequins, colored glass, embroidery, and gemstones and hand painted wooden head. Whether you choose to showcase them on your wall, use them as mobile decorations to infuse color into a child's room, or incorporate them into your authentic boho and ethnic decor, these puppets are sure to captivate your senses.
These marionettes stand as exceptional representatives of the age-old craft of village folk puppets in Asia. What sets marionettes apart from conventional puppets is their manipulation through strings controlled from above, demanding a high degree of skill and making them a cherished form of puppetry.
In Asia, marionette troupes once traveled to villages throughout India, captivating audiences in a time before the ubiquity of television and the internet. Their performances were not only entertaining but also played a crucial cultural role as storytellers.
These marionettes are not only a collector's delight but also exquisite works of art, reflecting the enduring legacy of the Jaipur Kathputli tradition. These traditional marionettes have a history dating back approximately 1500 years and have been passed down through generations to narrate folk stories.
Crafted with wooden faces and adorned with vibrant fabrics and silk sari cloth, these Rajasthani kathputli puppets are a celebration of Indian culture and craftsmanship.
This pair of puppets is more than mere decorations; they are a gateway to the captivating world of Rajasthani puppetry and the stories it has woven throughout the ages.
Experience their grandeur with their large size, standing at an impressive height of 29 inches for the man and 27 inches for the lady. See less