The “kamcheng” is a type of covered container. In the Hokkien dialect, the term has been interpreted to mean “covered jar”. This piece has a tub-like shape with a dome shaped cover. A standing Buddhist lion-dog sits on top of the cover. This “kamcheng” is decorated with several types of motifs. There are different coloured butterflies in flight as well as white and pink peony blossoms. Peonies symbolise spring, love and beauty. Butterflies and flowers together signify marital bliss and fidelity. Some of the eight auspicious Buddhist emblems also adorn the piece, such as the “Endless knot”. These decorative motifs are set against a rose pink background. The colour, in the Peranakan culture, symbolises happiness, longevity, youthfulness and innocence. Although there may have been varied day to day uses for the “kamcheng”, it was one of the three important wares in Peranakan Chinese wedding ceremonies. It was used to bring various types of food and sweetmeats to the bridal room for the bride and groom throughout the twelve days of the wedding celebrations.
