Title
Light purple kebaya with openwork lunette panels
Year/Period
Early 20th century
Region
Singapore
Object Type
Material
Technique
Dimension
Object size: 126.5 x 70.0 x 0.3 cm
Accession No.
2019-00598
Collection of
Credit Line
Gift of the Lim Family in memory of Edna Chong Kim Neo
This purple kebaya features edges which have been transformed into a series of openwork triangular panels, each formed by a network of embroidered lunettes. Although arguably in imitation of lace, cutwork like this was more difficult to create. It was possible by the 1920s to create elaborate lace-like patterns using sewing machines, which were widely available in the Malay Archipelago since the late 19th century. This was made by Chong Kim Neo (1916-1972), who made beaded slippers and garments from her home as she did not own a shop.
