This is a pair of embroidered slippers, also known as kasut sulam. In order to achieve the high relief effects, thin strips of cardboard were cut out into the shapes that they would decorate the shoes with, in this case of a large peony at the front of each side. Silk and gold threads would be embroidered over the pieces of cardboard, creating that high relief effect.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.
