Straits Chinese, more commonly known as the Peranakan, originated from Chinese immigrants who settled in the Malay Archipelago, particularly in Malacca, Singapore, and Penang, beginning in the 15th century.
Their distinct identity and culture resulted from the intermarriage and cultural exchange between these Chinese settlers and local Malay communities, creating a unique hybrid culture with blended Chinese and Malay influences that distinguishes them from both their ancestors and the indigenous population.
The Straits Chinese panel belt made an appearance in the Straits Settlements in the early 20th century. This was around the same period when clothes were being made out of lighter and lacier materials.
Straits Chinese Panel Belt
Gold | Early to mid-20th century | L97cm (with buckle)/buckle: H7 x W9.5cm | National Museum of Singapore collection
Gold | Early to mid-20th century | L97cm (with buckle)/buckle: H7 x W9.5cm | National Museum of Singapore collection
Panel belts were worn by wealthy Straits Chinese women, known as Nyonyas, with the baju panjang (long dress) and kebaya (blouse). They were finely engraved with semi-abstract patterns of foliage, flowers and animals. This one has multiple panels and an ogival (eye-shaped) buckle.
Time-consuming and laborious, earlier belts were made of one to two thousand pieces of interlinking rings and links of various shapes which are painstakingly arranged and linked together to form different designs.
In order to save time and labour, another method was used where the belt is constructed out of a series (30-40) of relatively large rectangular, octagonal or oval shaped panels, decorated with appliqué, repousse and/or pierced designs, which are joined together by links.
The belts are finished with hooks or catches and a large rectangular or ogival-shaped buckle. These are often decorated by auspicious symbols like this dragon that looked like a Kirin.
History of Singapore
Singapore’s history is a journey from ancient settlement to modern metropolis. Initially known as Temasek, it was a 14th-century trading post, later falling under the influence of various empires. Sir Stamford Raffles established a British trading post in 1819, transforming the island into a thriving port. Post-World War II, Singapore gained self-governance and eventually independence, first as part of Malaysia and then as a sovereign nation in 1965.
The Singapore Treasures series focuses on the artefacts, relics and key monuments and moments that shaped this young nation. It is divided into four main parts.
- Pre-colonial before 1819
- British Colonial Rule (1819-1942), Japanese Occupation (1942-1945) and Post-War (1945-1955)
- Self government (1955-1963) and merger with Malaysia (1963-1965)
- Independence since 1965
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