Rare Pair of Straits Chinese / Peranakan Antique Solid Silver Pillow Ends Buntal Plates c.1890

A pair of rare genuine antique Straits Chinese/Peranakan hallmarked solid silver circular bolster-end plates, Malaysia & Singapore c.1890. The Straits Silver is a fusion of the Chinese and Malay cultures. They were used by the Straits Chinese (Chinese communities that settled along the Malacca Strait regions in the mid-19th century - the Malay peninsula and Singapore) as part of their wedding rituals. The plates would have been sewn on both ends of a bolster as adornments for the bridal bed. Each plate is profusely decorated with a central flower head, surrounded by the 'Eight Taoist emblems', these are objects carried by the eight immortals in Taoism, against fluttering ribbon and foliate background. Taoism was and still is the main religion of the Straits Chinese of today Malaysia and Singapore. Each plate has a small Chinese silver chopmark/hallmark (last two images). Both tested and the silver is at least 90% purity. Peace of Mind Guarantee:- ● We only sell genuine vintage and antiques ● We accept returns and give full refunds ● Worldwide expedited shipping