This is a filigree butterfly. It is small but the workmanship is intricate. It is likely that it was originally sewn onto a textile such as a ceremonial handkerchief or a wedding headband. Butterflies are auspicious Chinese symbols for weddings as they represent conjugal felicity.This ornament is part of a group donation from descendants of Tan Kim Seng and Tan Jiak Kim. Both were wealthy merchants, philanthropists and leaders of the local Hokkien community.
