Title
Baju panjang
Year/Period
Late 19th-early 20th century
Region
Yangon, Myanmar
Object Type
Material
Dimension
Gross measurement: 119 x 145 cm
Accession No.
2010-03381
Collection of
The baju panjang is a long and loose fitting tunic. This makes it suitable in the hot, humid climate of the Southeast Asian region as it allowed for ventilation. Baju panjangs were worn over sarongs (skirtcloths) and were usually fastened by 3 brooches known as kerosangs. The decorative motifs on this cream brocade baju panjang include small geometric shapes and butterfly prints. The butterfly symbolises love and romance. The baju panjang began to fall out of favour with younger Nonyas at the start of the early 20th century with the introduction of the aesthetically more appealing baju kebaya.
