Shadow puppet of a horse (Sbek Poa)

Detail of a pattern
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At A Glance

  • Period

    19th century
  • Geography

    Cambodia
  • Material

    Animal skin
  • Dimension

    H x W: 87.3 x 82 cm (34 3/8 x 32 5/16 in)
  • Accession Number

    S1989.18
  • EDAN ID

    edanmdm:fsg_S1989.18

Object Details

  • Provenance

    From at least 1983-1989
    Joyce and Kenneth X. Robbins, method of acquisition unknown [1]
    From 1989
    Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, gift of Joyce and Kenneth X. Robbins [2]
    Notes:
    [1] Known to have been in the collection of Kenneth X. Robbins in 1983. See Kenneth X. Robbins, “Indo-Asian Shadow Figures” in “Arts of Asia,” vol. 13, no. 5 (September-October 1983), p. 73 (illustrated). In the article, the object is published with the caption “Collection: Kenneth X. Robbins.” See also offer letter from Kenneth X. Robbins to Milo Beach on “Kenneth X. Robbins, M. D., LTD.” letterhead, dated December 4, 1989, copy in object file.
    Dr. Kenneth X. Robbins, psychiatrist, M.D., and Joyce Robbins of Potomac, Maryland are collectors of South Asian art and objects related to the history of Africans in the greater Indian Ocean world and the Jewish diaspora in India and beyond. Dr. Robbins has also authored several books, articles, and lectures. Works from their collection may also be found at The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, DC and the Brooklyn Museum, NY.
    [2] See Deed of Gift to the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery of the Smithsonian Institution, dated December 21, 1989, original in object file.
    Research Completed October 26, 2022
  • Collection

    National Museum of Asian Art Collection
  • Previous custodian or owner

    Dr. Kenneth X. Robbins
    Joyce Robbins
  • Origin

    Cambodia
  • Credit Line

    Gift of Joyce and Kenneth X. Robbins
  • Type

    Toy and Entertainment
  • Restrictions and Rights

    Usage Conditions Apply

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