Wayang Golek

Wayang golek are rod puppets which are unique to Sunda, the Western half of Java. They have intricately carved and painted wooden heads, jointed arms and elaborate costumes. Performances take place on a low, narrow wooden stage, behind which the dalang (puppeteer) sits. 

One story has it that they were invented by an Islamic ruler in the 16th century, and used to spread Islam by telling stories about the hero Amir Hamzah who was an uncle of Mohammed (the Menak cycles). Today they might be used to tell stories derived from the Mahabharata or, less often, the Ramayana. 

Traditionally wayang golek performances are accompanied by a small gamelan salendro although in recent years some of the best known dalang have experimented with using much larger instruments with an increased tonal range.