Overview

This long, narrow beaded textile band is a Straits Chinese (Peranakan/Nonya) glass beadwork panel, likely a ceremonial belt component or valance hanging. It is densely hand-beaded in the classic Peranakan style with a continuous narrative of auspicious motifs — a spotted deer, butterflies, birds, and blooming peonies — traditionally symbolizing longevity, marital happiness, and prosperity. This craft was practiced by Nonya women of the Straits Settlements (Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia), largely for wedding and ceremonial textiles.

Design & Craftsmanship

Function & Form: A narrow beaded band, 41″L x 4″W, on a black velvet ground lined with a printed cotton backing fabric in a stylized green/yellow/gray floral pattern.
Artistry & Ornamentation: Dense multicolor micro rocaille glass and bugle beadwork forming repeating clusters of large stylized flowers, leaves, and a golden deer figure, bordered on both long edges by a scalloped “eye” motif band in cream, orange, and blue-green beads.
Structural Base: Black velvet face with a printed cotton lining on the reverse; no maker’s mark observed.

Condition Report

Surface Condition: Beadwork is vivid and largely intact, with wear consistent with age and handling.
Structural Integrity: The panel is stable for display. This item is sold “as-is” with all associated patina and wear inherent to its age and history as part of the Craft World Tours Collection.

Nonya

Antique Straits Chinese Peranakan Nonya Beaded Panel, Deer & Floral Motifs