Peranakan Antique Valances

These textiles demonstrates the level of skill and artistry attained by Peranakan embroiders in the 19th century. Peranakan culture was a fusion of the local Malay culture and that of the Chinese who primarily came to trade in Malacca beginning in the 15th century. Through the years, further influences also came from other cultures including India, Portugal and the United Kingdom. These valances would have been hanged horizontally as part of a traditional wedding bedroom doors decoration. Intricately embroidered with silk and gilt thread, it is patterned with colourful motifs. The decoration is auspicious, as is the original red background.


Pair 1

Picture 1

Picture 2

Pair 2

Picture 1

Picture 2