This silver hairpin set with pearls is an example of mourning jewellery made for the Peranakan Chinese in Malacca and Singapore. A fine piece of workmanship, it exhibits an interesting fusion aspect with the Victorian crown motif at the head of the hairpin.Peranakan Chinese women used silver jewellery as part of their dressing. They were treasured heirlooms and art pieces in the hands of old Peranakan families, and collectors of Peranakan artefacts. The motifs on this piece also attest to the changing and varied tastes of the Peranakan Chinese. Bangles such as this piece are becoming increasingly rare to find today.
