This sarong would have been worn by a Nonya (Peranakan woman) with a tunic (kebaya). The sombre colours of this indigo batik suggest that it was worn during the mourning period of three years. Mourning was an expression of grief and respect by the grandchildren and children of the deceased, and required changes in dress. The central panel (kepala), the area of diagonal stripes, is decorated with birds while the rest of the field features diamond motifs.
