Set of 4 Antique late 1800's Hand Crafted Pupi, Puppets or Marionettes, Sicily

A set of four authentic late 1800's "Pupi" or marionette puppets are traditional in Sicily. These puppet shows were family businesses, starting around 1800, telling folk and historical stories from the Renaissance and Medieval periods.

The hand carving, painting and maintenance were all done by the family who also performed the shows. "The Opera of the Puppets" was played in a folding tent-like stage which concealed the operators.

Puppets are type cast for traditional tales. Wigs are human hair and the armor is hammered tin. Puppets are about 48" tall, excluding the metal operating arms. Old costumes have wear and stains, there is some corrosion on the tin for a little antique character.

Puppets are about 15" across, 12" deep and 46" tall, including the hanging rods, height is 61" overall.

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Item # 26921