Hanging

19th century

Younger brother of Ravana, Kumbhakarna awakens from his slumber and attempts to dissuade Ravana from waging a war with Rama. Out of filial loyalty, Kumbhakarna fights on his brother’s side and is slain. In the wayang kulit (shadow puppet) tradition, Kumbhakarna is the largest puppet of all, sometimes five feet tall. He bears the attributes of a rakshasa (demonic figure): bulbous nose, bulging eyes, and sharp fangs. These features are in stark contrast to the elegant and refined physical characteristics of other hero characters, such as Rama. Yet, despite appearances, Kumbhakarna is beloved in the wayang world for his morality and purity.

Cloth

63 1/2 x 42 in. (161.29 x 106.68 cm)

Eugene Fuller Memorial Collection

40.33

Not currently on view

Resources

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Asian Art Museum, Boundless: Stories of Asian Art, Feb. 8, 2020 - ongoing [on view July 16 - Dec. 5, 2021].

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