In ancient times, marionettes from Burma were much more than the simple toys they've become today. A traditional means of communication, they were used to tell country folk in far-flung villages what was going on in the capital and even used to pass along bad news to the king and Burmese court.
According to written records, these puppets made their first known appearance in the 15th century. Although the origins of the Burmese puppet theater are not firmly established, some believe the art began in India or nearby China.
As the art matured, it became a favorite among the royal courts and was often used to entertain visiting royals, according to the research of Judy Isaacs of West Bloomfield Township. She recently brought three examples of the Burmese puppeteers' art to Frank Boos for appraisal.
"My son purchased them in Cambodia in 1998," she wrote. "He found them in a shop and paid $20 for all three. I have no idea of their worth but have always wondered."
In original condition, they each measure approximately 24 inches in length. They have no damage, she said.
Boos, who appraised them, admired their fine, lifelike craftsmanship.
"We definitely don't see many of these," he said. "I think this is real hair and eyelashes."
Boos dated them to the 1920s-'30s, and says vintage Burmese puppets don't often hit the auction market. Even though the audience could be limited, he valued them at $150-$250 each, up to $750 for the trio.
"My husband says that if you were going to give us a million for them, we'd sell," said Isaacs.
"While I can't offer you a million, I can tell you they're really nice and in great condition," Boos says. "Your son did OK. They're definitely a conversation piece."
Learn history of Myanmar puppets
Interested in learning more about these privileged puppets? Check out www.myanmarartsandcrafts.com/puppets, which includes a handy history of the Burmese marionettes, as well as new models being made in the country today.
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