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.

Southeast Asian antiques

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