Antique Javanese Prints ? Gamelan Instruments & Wayang Puppets ? c.1860

  • Hardcover
  • Used
See all details
Item image 1 of 6.

Seller: Bartele Gallery - The Netherlands, Langweer, FRL, NetherlandsBartele Gallery - The Netherlands

5-star seller

AbeBooks seller since January 8, 2018

Association member: NVVAILAB

View this seller's items
Hardcover

Condition: Used

£ 283.37

£ 14.62 shipping 
Ships from Netherlands to U.S.A.

Quantity: 1 available

Add to basket
Free 30-day returns

Item description from seller

Antique Javanese Prints ? Gamelan Instruments & Wayang Puppets ? c.1860 This pair of finely hand-colored lithographs presents two central elements of Javanese performing arts: the musical instruments of the Gamelan orchestra and the figures of Wayang puppet theatre, both of which hold deep cultural and ceremonial significance in Indonesia. The first plate, titled Muziek-Instrumenten (Gamelan), depicts a wide range of traditional Javanese instruments, carefully illustrated and labeled. Included are gongs suspended from ornately carved stands, metallophones struck with mallets, small kettle gongs, drums, and stringed instruments. Each piece is decorated with gilded carvings and vibrant red and gold ornamentation, reflecting the splendor of instruments used in court performances and religious ceremonies. The Gamelan, an ensemble unique to Java and Bali, is essential in accompanying dances, shadow puppet plays, and community rituals. The second plate, Wajang-Toppen en Maskers, portrays figures from the world of Wayang theatre, Java's classical form of puppet performance. Both Wayang Kulit (shadow puppets made of leather) and Wayang Golek (three-dimensional wooden puppets) are shown alongside brightly painted theatrical masks. The figures represent gods, heroes, and clowns from the great Hindu epics Mahabharata and Ramayana, as well as indigenous Javanese legends. These performances were not merely entertainment but also conveyed moral and philosophical lessons, accompanied by the resonant tones of the Gamelan. Together, these prints capture the interconnected nature of music, dance, and theatre in Javanese tradition. Produced for European audiences during the 19th century, they provided a vivid window into the culture of the Dutch East Indies, combining ethnographic detail with decorative artistry. Condition summary: Both lithographs are in very good condition, with strong, well-preserved colors. Some minor toning and faint spotting in the margins, consistent with age. Images remain bright and detailed, with no tears or repairs visible. Framing tips: This set is particularly striking when displayed together, reflecting the harmony of Javanese performance arts. Dark teak or walnut frames will complement the warm tones of the hand coloring, while cream or light ivory mounts will highlight the detailed illustrations. Technique: Hand-colored lithograph Maker: Unknown European lithographer, c.1860, from a Dutch East Indies ethnographic series.

Seller Inventory # BG-14121-4 & BG-14121-5

Bibliographic details

Title
Antique Javanese Prints ? Gamelan Instruments & Wayang Puppets ? c.1860
Binding
Hardcover

Bartele Gallery - The Netherlands

Langweer, FRL, Netherlands

5-star seller

AbeBooks seller since January 8, 2018

Association member:

Shipping rates from Netherlands to U.S.A.

Item3 to 9 business days2 to 4 business days
First item£ 14.62£ 30.09
Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.

Payment methods

  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • American Express
  • Apple Pay
  • Google Pay
  • Bank Wire Transfer
  • Cash
  • Paypal

Store description

Bartele Gallery offers a wide range of antique maps, prints and rare books. Our extensive collection of antique maps covers every part of the world. Whilst cartography holds a special place in our collection, we also offer thousands of antique prints covering fields of interest as diverse as architecture, natural history, religion, ethnology and many more. Our Abebooks store includes a selection of maps, prints and books for SALE prices. Please visit our other online sales channels to explore our complete collection of original antique maps and print. Save on shipping and order multiple items!

Specialty

Antique Maps, Prints and Books. (large collection of book of the Dutch Indies not yet online)

Association member

  • The Nederlandsche Vereeniging van Antiquaren
  • International League of Antiquarian Booksellers
Members of these associations are committed to maintaining the highest standards. They vouch for the authenticity of all items offered for sale. They provide expert and detailed descriptions, disclose all significant defects and/or restorations, provide clear and accurate pricing, and operate with fairness and honesty during the purchase experience.

Seller's business information

Bartele Gallery - The Netherlands

Netherlands