A performance of the cendrawasih dance by Sekar Jepun, the Balinese dance troupe of Sanata Dharma University.
Inspired by the courtship dance of the bird of paradise, the dance takes the form of a mating ritual. Two women dancers don Pandji-style headdresses with feathers stuck in them, as well as long flowing scarves or skirts with a pink stripe. The skirts serve as the tails of the birds of paradise, and when held their fluttering gives the impression of wings in flight. Shown here is a lone Cendrawasih dancer with her scarf hanging.
Other movements: In flight, Courting movementsPhotograph: Chris Woodrich