Learn about Peranakan culture through this exhibition on embroidery and beadwork. Over 200 art pieces, including shoes and table covers, are divided into various sections – auspicious emblems and symbols, techniques and materials, and needlework from various countries including Indonesia, Malacca, Penang and Singapore. It is notable that Peranakan embroidery and beadwork borrow from a variety of cultures. A tapestry may be Chinese in design, made using European techniques and feature Malay symbols.
See if you can spot the popular motifs used throughout the art pieces including symbols for longevity such as the crane and deer, the horseshoe crab for fidelity and the phoenix for wealth.
The museum will also hold workshops on embroidery and beadwork during the exhibition.