The ‘baju panjang’ is a long tunic that was the standard women’s wear for Peranakan women for much of the 19th century. As the outfit is long and loose fitting, it was suitable for the hot and humid Southeast Asian climate while projecting a modest appearance at the same time. The baju panjang was usually worn with a plaid sarong. This piece could have been made from cotton with printed batik. This is a technique for decorating the plain, woven fabric using molten wax applied or drawn onto the cloth. The decorative motifs here include white flowers with bees flying amongst them. These are set against solemn brown background.
