This piece of embroidered silk handkerchief uses the satin stitch on a cream coloured background. The satin stitch is a technique using a series of flat, parallel stitches to cover the background fabric. Blanket stitches are visible along the edges of the piece. The decorative motifs on this piece consist of a pair of phoenixes amidst peony blossoms at the centre of the handkerchief. There are also other floral and bird motifs. Phoenixes are auspicious symbols representing virtue while peonies symbolise wealth and prosperity. Such pieces of embroidery were usually hand sewn by the Peranakan women themselves. The ability to create fine pieces of beadwork and embroidery was an expected skill of a Peranakan wife. A piece like this was possibly used during wedding ceremonies because of its auspicious motifs.
