Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a traditional Burmese string puppet, known as Yoke Thé, depicting a royal prince (Mintha) in elaborate ceremonial attire. It features a hand-carved wooden head, hands, and feet, paired with a heavily embellished costume decorated with sequins, glass beads, and metallic thread embroidery.
Story
In 19th-century Burma, marionette theater was the ultimate royal entertainment, used by kings to subtly gauge public opinion. These puppets were treated with such reverence that they were kept in dedicated shrines when not performing.
Maker / Origin
Crafted by skilled traditional artisans in Myanmar, puppet-making is a highly respected collaborative craft. A master woodcarver shapes the expressive face and limbs from light woods, while specialized tailors construct the intricate, layered costumes using traditional embroidery techniques.
Condition & Value
The puppet appears to be in good vintage condition with its original strings and wooden controller intact. There is minor fraying to the textile edges and light oxidation on some of the metallic sequins, which is typical for its age. Excellent preservation of the delicate embroidery maintains its value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.