The newest museum to enter the world-stage is the Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets. Founded by visionary Hadi Sunyoto, who wished to create a space to preserve the disappearing art of puppetry and mask-making, the House of Mask of Puppets displays its magnificent and rare collection in a number of traditional Javanese Huts called Joglo. Prior to 2006, the exhibition spaces were private places for household activities, but the name "house" remained to signify the new museum. Situated on the beautiful landscape of Kubu Bingin Cultural Village in Gianyar, the House holds the largest collection of masks and puppets in the world. With over 4500 pieces from countries such as Indonesia, Africa, Malaysia, China, Myanmar, Cambodia and Japan, the House can engage historians and culture enthusiasts for hours!
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The featured golden mask on the 'homepage' is from Bali. This beautiful mask depicts an image of Jero Luh, who is also called Barong Landung Luh, a Chinese princess in the Dalem Balingkang story. There are some truly rare masks as well, including two masks that remain in their original "bark" form and carved only with two slits for seeing outside. A striking display is the Christian divinity collection of Wayan Kulit figures from Java. |
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Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets is being transformed into an official museum this year. This is one of the most incredible attractions in Ubud.
Visit the UbudVibe.com Directory and be the puppet master of your own play! |
Current exhibitions include rare masks and puppets from around the world.These masks are the faces of commoners and great kings, demons and saints, beastly creatures, and divine deities and historical figures that mostly reflect an appreciation toward Hindu religion. Some of the most beautiful masks are from the region of Madura which feature beautiful garlands hand-carved around the face (pictured in the main image "Visit Museum Year 2010")
The House showcases the largest collection of
