This gilt silver ornament is part of a Peranakan Chinese bridal headdress. It depicts the Daoist god of longevity, Shou Lao on a crane. It is believed that deity motifs protect the wearer from malevolent spiritual forces during the wedding rites. Different accessories and outfits were required for the 12-day traditional Peranakan wedding ceremony, during which symbolic rites were performed by the bride and groom.
