This deer ornament is done almost entirely with filigree work. Deer are often believed to live to a very great age and are at times depicted with a pine tree, which collectively represented longevity. 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.
