Wayang Adipati Karno

Wayang Adipati Karno is a character from the Javanese shadow puppet theater, representing the noble but tragic figure from the Mahabharata. Adipati Karno, known for his valor and unwavering sense of honor, is depicted as a deeply conflicted warrior. Born as a Pandava but raised by a humble charioteer family, he later becomes a loyal ally of the Kauravas, even though his true heritage lies with the Pandavas. In wayang performances, Karno’s character is intricately portrayed through a finely crafted puppet, embodying both his royal birth and his adopted upbringing. His story reflects themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the complex interplay of fate, resonating deeply with audiences. The moral dilemmas he faces serve as a reminder of the human struggle between duty and personal identity, making his tale one of the most poignant in the wayang tradition.

Shadow Puppet Figure, circa 1975
Origin: Ponorogo, East Java
Material: Buffalo Hide and Horn
Dimension: 79 x 30 x 1 cm