This belt purse is embroidered with gold threads which have been couched to create a surface that resembles brocade.Belt purses were worn by both bride and groom during a Chinese Peranakan wedding. Traditionally, the groom’s purse would be embroidered by his betrothed and presented during the Lap Chye ceremony (gift exchange), which marked the confirmation of the engagement. But some were purchased or commissioned instead. Although the function of belt purses was ceremonial, the practice was to place a token amount of money inside for good luck.