Title
Baju Panjang
Year/Period
Early-mid 20th century
Region
Straits Settlements
Object Type
baju panjang, tunics
Dimension
Gross measurement: 111.5 x 136.6 cm
Accession No.
2009-02889
Collection of
NLB Type
Costume
The ‘baju panjang’ is a long tunic that was the standard women’s wear for Peranakan women for much of the 19th century. As the outfit is long and loose fitting, it was suitable for the hot and humid Southeast Asian climate while projecting a modest appearance at the same time. The baju panjang was usually worn with a plaid sarong. This piece could have been made from cotton with printed batik. This is a technique for decorating the plain, woven fabric using molten wax applied or drawn onto the cloth. The decorative motifs here include white flowers with bees flying amongst them. These are set against solemn brown background.
