These Nang Talung shadow puppets are brand new, handcrafted from water buffalo leather and sourced directly from the artisan. They perpetuate an ancient tradition from southern Thailand, blending folk art, spirituality, and symbolic storytelling.
Each character is carefully cut and painted according to traditional methods, then mounted on rods to be manipulated behind the screen during performances. These puppets can be used as decorative objects, ethnographic artifacts, or tools for cultural transmission.
Characters available in stock:
- Lersi – the wise ascetic hermit, master of the arts and spiritual knowledge
- Yaksha – the giant guardian, protective force and warrior power
- Hanuman – the heroic monkey god, symbol of courage, loyalty, and ingenuity
Nang Talung shadow puppetry is a traditional form of performance originating in southern Thailand. The figures, cut from stiff leather and richly colored, are projected as shadows onto a lit screen. The stories blend epics from the Ramakien, local legends, folk humor, and moral lessons. Each character has a specific symbolism, and the performance was historically used as much for entertainment as for conveying values, history, and wisdom.
These Nang Talung puppets embody a living art, deeply rooted in Thai culture, and are rare objects outside their region of origin.
Each puppet is approximately 20 cm tall.