The Estate Collection No. 8 - The Peranakan Bracelet
“It was a tradition for the Nyonyas to put on identical pairs of bracelets or bangles on each wrist. This would give the wearer a balanced appearance. At times, two or more bangles may adorn the wrists but they must always be in matching pairs and in equal quantity on both wrists.”
Created in colonial Malaya in the 1950s, this classic Peranakan bracelet was likely commissioned (originally as a pair) by a wealthy Peranakan family for their daughter on the wedding day. The young Nyonya would wear the identical bracelets on each wrist to reflect much desired symmetry.
It is quite possible that the two bracelets were passed down to different members of the family over the years. We were able to procure one of the two pieces. Interestingly, an overwhelming number of the bracelets that are available in the estate market today come as single pieces, likely reflecting today’s trend of wearing wrist adornments on only a single arm (which started with the wristwatch).
The main floral motif, inspired by Majolica and Peranakan tiles, is the draw here. Custom cut lavender jade cabochons add a subtle depth to the piece.
This piece is part of a digital gallery exhibition and is not currently available for purchase.
The Estate Collection encompasses antique jewellery pieces thoughtfully restored to reflect our stories across time and continents — to honour history, to shape the present, and to hold space for what’s yet to unfold. Each piece is the only one of its kind in the world.
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