What is a WAU ( pronounced WOW ) ?
It is a giant kite, where flying it is a popular pastime especially in the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Used as decorative pieces or in competitions, they have intricate patterns which take weeks to construct and decorate. It was mentioned as being in existence during the early days of the Melaka Sultanate. The kites come in all shapes and sizes and are decorated with colourful paper and strands of thread. Sometimes a bow-shaped device is attached to the kite to give a high-pitched humming sound when flown.
One legend says that farmers used kites as a kind of flying scarecrows in the fields. The sound made by the kites lulled their children to sleep, so they could work with little interruption. Another popular belief is that coastal inhabitants once employed fishing kites made from palm leaves and fitted with a line and hook to catch fish.
There are varying regional styles of kite making and designs.
In making a wau, bamboo is used for the frame. The bamboo is split and soaked in mud for two weeks. This prevents the bamboo from being attacked by weevils as well as makes it more flexible. The bamboo splits are made into a complex but lightweight frame, tested with one layer of paper and making alterations accordingly to make sure the kite is structurally sound. Next, the patterns are meticulously cut from rice-paper and glued on piece by piece to form intricate motifs.
Apart from the performance and appearance of the Malay kite, the sound is considered important as well. The sound created or dengung as it is called, depends on the force of the wind. The higher the kite flies and the faster the wind, the higher the pitch, making the sound ... w-a-u-u-u, w-a-u-u-u. There are various types of wau such as wau kuching (cat kite), wau merak (peacock kite), and wau bulan (moon kite). Each wau also comes with a different design and size.
About item offered:
A framed mini model of WAU BULAN ( moon- themed ). Made of wood, it is very unique and memorable, and presented in an esclusive looking wooden frame , very ideal for :
·Wall decoration
·Memorable traditional house warming gift
·Corporate gift
Dimension : 43.5 cm x 50.0 cm Price: USD275
