Kerosang (fastener)

Title

Kerosang (fastener)

Year/Period

ca. 2009

Region

Singapore

Object Type

kerongsang

Material

gold (metal), diamond (mineral)

Technique

jewellery-making, metalworking

Dimension

Object size: 1.3 x 6.3 x 4.8 cm

Accession No.

2021-00206

Collection of

Peranakan Museum

Credit Line

Gift of Foundation Jewellers

This blouse fastener ('kerongsang' in Malay or 'kerosang' in Baba Malay) features floral motifs. A fastening pin is hinged behind. This style of jewellery was popular among women, including Peranakans in the early 20th century. During this time, such fasteners were worn in sets of three to secure the 'kebaya' (short blouse). This fastener was made by Lim Teck Ngain (b. 1947), a goldsmith at Foundation Jewellers in Singapore. The design is based on an earlier drawing made by his brother and master craftsman, Lim Foon Yan (1941 – 2009). The drawing accompanies this donation.