Title
Baju panjang
Year/Period
second half 20th century
Region
Straits Settlements and Indonesia
Object Type
baju panjang, tunics
Dimension
Gross measurement: 111 x 122 cm
Accession No.
2011-01480
Collection of
Credit Line
Gift of Mr and Mrs Lee Kip Lee
NLB Type
Costume
This baju panjang is decorated with embroidered animal and floral motifs. It is possibly made of satin material.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, while also projecting a modest appearance. Baju panjangs were worn over sarongs (skirtcloths) and were usually fastened by 3 brooches known as kerosangs. With the introduction of the aesthetically more appealing kebaya in the early 20th century, the baju panjang began to fall out of favour with the younger Nonyas. It became increasingly worn only by the older generations of Peranakan women.
