This is cicada ornament made from filigree work. Cicadas are associated with regeneration and long life and are symbols of immortality in Chinese art. It is likely that this ornament was originally sewn onto a textile such as a ceremonial handkerchief or a wedding headband.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.
