This rectangular embroidered panel comes with a fringe of short tassels along the width of the panel. It is created using bead embroidery or threading. This is a technique where the coloured seed beads are stitched onto a base fabric using needle and thread. There are several motifs on this panel. These include a pair of deer, dragons, insects and flowers. ‘Shou’ lettering is also found on this piece. Insects are symbols of fertility and abundance while the deer and the character ‘shou’ symbolise longevity. The Penang nonyas, more than their counterparts in Singapore and Malacca, preferred to attach short tassels to the widths of their rectangular embroidered panels. This was to give their work a greater luxurious feel. Such panels were usually used as table covers, panels for picture frames, as ornamental hangings, pillow and bolster cases among others.
