This is a set of mourning batik which comprises of a sarong kebaya (blouse and skirt) and camisole, all in black colour. Mourning was a formal expression of grief and respect by the children and grandchildren of the recently deceased. The period of mourning traditionally lasted three years. One way in which the Peranakan Chinese observed this period was by wearing clothing in sombre colours. Mourning dress would usually be divided into three periods. In the first year, mourners would limit themselves to wearing only black and white clothing, such as this set. This was followed by clothes in shades of blue, green and finally purple. This set remains in pristine condition as it was seldom worn.
