Model of a Javanese Marketplace, anonymous, c. 1830 - c. 1860
Models like this one were intended as souvenirs for Europeans. They reflect a clear-cut, idealized view of colonial society that bore little relation to reality. The 154 figurines made of bread dough represent different population groupsgroups. Dancers, a gamelan orchestra and a dignitary and his entourage all mingling in the marketplace. The latter looks much like the painted court officials on view elsewhere in this gallery.