The Straits Chinese panel belt made an appearance in the Straits Settlements in the early 20th century. This was around the same period when clothes were being made out of lighter and lacier materials. These belts complemented the ‘baju panjang’ and ‘kebaya’ worn by Straits Chinese women. Panel belts, such as the one depicted here, were finely engraved with semi abstract patterns of foliage, flowers and animals.
