Green bolster ends

This is a pair of beaded bolster ends, known as bantal panels with beads. The beads are sewn in the form of flowers and butterflies, symbols of fertility and happiness for the newlywed couple. This is an important and diverse collection of Peranakan Chinese beadwork and embroidery from Indonesia. It contains unusual forms of beadwork and embroidery and are reflective of the fondness that Peranakan Chinese throughout Southeast Asia have for bright colours and ornate decorations.