The crown of gilded (gold-plated) metal (probably silver alloy) set with dozens of faceted diamantes, is from the Malay people, most probably those residing in Singapore.The design incorporates Islamic-inspired floral-like star burst motifs amid wire tendril-like scrolls, and fern frond-like arabesques. The sides feature wing-life, scrolled bands set diamantes which are reminiscent of the headdress worn by princely characters from the Ramayana, the Hindu epic that survived in Southeast Asia post the region's Islamicisation.It is modelled on the mahkota, or regalia crowns of the sultans and consorts of the Malay Peninsula. Most probably, it was intended for use during a traditional the trappings of an enthroned royal couple as they are presented to the rest of the community, signifying the great importance attached to weddings among the Malays. Such a crown could also have been intended for use during a berkhatan (ritual circumcision) ceremony during which the boy was accorded the trappings of a prince for the day, honouring him during this rite of passage from boyhood into early manhood.
