Antique Wayang Blencong Lantern

Antique Wayang Blencong Hanging Lantern

Measures approximately 24" tall, 13" wide, 8" deep. Metal pot handle adds 5" depth. Metal hanger at top adds 5" length.

These lanterns were used in Wayang shadow puppetry, as a lighting source for puppet shows that once used coconut oil as fuel. These Blencong lights have different shapes and are made of carved wood or bronze and have a barrel to put the oil in. The Blencong animates shadow puppets on the screen, and in the same way, the shadows that are produced when viewed from behind a screen look more artistic. A Blencong is now rarely used because it is considered impractical and the light is not bright enough, and was therefore replaced by petromac lamps and later by incandescent bulbs. In beautiful, heavily used condition, the wooden box with a metal inner tray is "impregnated" with coconut oil. The frame on top has beautiful floral motifs and mythical figures. NL track and trace, registered international shipment. 

• Collection = Collectibles