NHB officers will NEVER ask you to transfer money or disclose bank log-in details over a phone call. Call the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799 if you are unsure if something is a scam. For more information on how to protect yourself against scams, please visit www.scamshield.gov.sg.

Straits Chinese panel belt

Title

Year/Period

Early-mid 20th century

Region

Singapore

Material

Gold

Dimension

Object size: L97cm (with buckle)/buckle: H7 x W9.5cm

Accession No.

GL-0002

Collection of

National Museum of Singapore

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. These belts complemented the ‘baju panjang’ and ‘kebaya’ worn by Straits Chinese women. Panel belts, such as the one depicted here, were finely engraved with semi abstract patterns of foliage, flowers and animals.