Nang Yai is an ancient Thai shadow puppet theatre where leather puppets are manipulated behind a screen to depict scenes from the Ramakien epic. Traditionally performed with a live orchestra during festive seasons, Nang Yai is a rare and captivating art form that continues to be preserved and revived.
Phali is a powerful monkey warrior with immense strength, he usurped the Monkey Throne (Kishkindha) from his half-brother Sugriva and made himself the Monkey King. The rightful heir Sugriva sought help from Phra Ram to defeat Phali to reclaim his kingdom. When Phali was defeated, Sugriva and Hanuman became valuable allies to Phra Ram.
Nang Yai - Phali
Year of execution: Undated
Year of acquisition: 2022
Medium: Cowhide leather mounted on bamboo
Dimension: 53 x 28 cm
Artist(s)
Nang Yai Shadow Puppets
