The circular maroon-coloured hat is decorated with floral motifs sewn with gold-thread couching, and has a black velvet band around its circumference. It is topped off with a Chinese knot. It comes in a circular black storage box, as well as a coconut husk that is used as a stand. Hats like this were worn by the groom on the first day of the traditional twelve day Peranakan wedding. This object belonged to Wee Bee Neo, a prominent Sang Khek Umm or mistress of wedding ceremonies. As a wedding specialist, she was in charge of the bride’s hair and jewellery, and guiding the young lady through the proper rituals. Sang Khek Umm sometimes loaned out wedding items for a fee, although it is unclear if this object was ever rented.
