Inventory no.: 2979a

Javanese Chinese Wedding Bed Hooks

SOLD

Pair of Silver Peranakan Floral Wedding Bed Curtain Hooks

Java, Indonesia

early 20th century

length: 16.5cm, combined weight: 106g

Each of this pair of silver hooks, of shaped, pierced and engraved sheet silver comprises an extended floral head and a rounded hook. The flowers are prunus or plum blossoms; their surfaces have been decorated with fin ring-punch work.

Such hooks were designed for use on Java by the localised or

Peranakan Chinese in their wedding or bridal beds in conjunction with fine mosquito netting or fine silk drapes that were pulled back and gathered behind the hook during the day. The beds were typically elaborately carved and of four-poster format. The open sides were hung with curtains which were closed at night.

The silver sheet is thin – the hooks are light in the hand. They are in fine condition with no losses. There are no maker’s marks.

References

Ho, W.M., Straits Chinese Silver: A Collector’s Guide, Times International, 1984.Provenance:

private collection, UK.

Inventory no.: 2979a

SOLD