The object in context
The campaign presented a Hanuman shadow puppet from the Peruchet collection. A shadow puppet must be considered as a performing object: shape, articulation and transmitted light contribute to its meaning.
Try this when you look
Imagine the outline without the surface colours. Which parts would remain legible in a shadow? Compare that outline with a conventional sculpture and explain why the method of presentation matters.
Before you visit
Do not operate, illuminate or handle a museum object yourself. Ask about the museum’s interpretation and performance traditions, and check access arrangements with Peruchet.
- Whole image — Describe the strongest visible contrast.
- Locate a detail — Follow a colour, gesture or line.
- Compare — Test your observation on a second work.
- Question — Ask what evidence could change your reading.