Deer Ornament

This ornament is a depiction of a spotted deer, with rose cut diamonds (intan in Baba Malay) decorating the body of the animal to signify spots. Deer are often believed to live to a very great age and are at times depicted with a pine tree, which collectively represented longevity. 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.