Kuda Lumping/Trance Dance Horse from Java - 51" L X 21" H

This is a unique ceremonial basketry puppet in form of horse from the island of Java in Indonesia. It is called a Kuda Lumping Horse or a Trance Dance Horse. Kuda Lumping (Kuda Kepang) is a ceremony celebrating a special event or rite of passage performed by local men who mount or 'ride' the horses and dance while traditional instruments are played. As the dance and ceremony progress, the dancers enter a trance. 

This is an impactful piece collected on location in the 1960s and would work well in a residential or commercial setting. It is made out of woven rattan, painted with the colors red, black and white on both sides, and finished off with details like black rubber ears, a marble for an eye and horse hair on the tail. Given its fairly neutral color palette, it would work well for both Folk Art Collectors or enjoyed as a wall hanging in a variety of interior spaces from Organic Modern, Coastal, Boho or Tropical. 

Place of Origin: Java, Indonesia

Date of Manufacture: 1950s-1960s

Condition: Very Good

Wear: Consistent with age and use. Please refer to pictures.

Dimensions:

Total: 51 in. L

Height: 21 in. H (Head), 17 in. H (Tail)

Width: 1 in. D (Handle/Spine), .5 in. D (Edge), .13 in. D (Body)

Shipping Note: Due to the size of this piece, it will need custom handling and packaging. Contact us for a quote.    

Reference: 

Museum of International Folk Art

Foundation for Southeast Asia Studies, Kuda Lumping (Flat Horses) Performance

Dance US Org

The Art of Indonesia by Frits A. Wagner (pgs. 168 and 170) 

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