A pair of bed hanging

Title
A pair of bed hanging
Year/Period
Early-mid 20th century
Region
Malacca, Straits Settlements
Dimension
Gross measurement: Please refer to parts
Accession No.
2011-01747
Collection of

This pair of bed hanging is decorated with the qilin and phoenix motifs, which are Chinese auspicious symbols, in gold embroidery. The qilin symbolises fertility and good fortune whilst the phoenix beauty, grace, high virtue, the bride and the Empress. The lower section features beadwork and bead tassels hang from the bottom. Peranakan wedding beds would be decorated with matching sets of embroidered textiles, such as this pair of bed hanging. On the bed textiles were blessings for the wedding couple, which conveyed the wish for many sons.