16/10/2022
Timeless Tradition of craftsmanship, aesthetics & passion. Over the years, embroidered kebaya became synonymous with the Peranakan Chinese community, particularly the Nyonyas. It has evolved through time in terms of its form, design and acceptance. In this 21st century, kebaya can be categorised as a “timeless tradition” as it can be traditional yet modern in its own way.
The Nyonya kebaya is a distinctive Peranakan Chinese creation, and was said then that the ability to sew and embroider one’s own kebaya was seen as a reflection of the Nyonya’s domestic skills and good upbringing.
This video features Nyonya Teo Swatt Neo, 82 years of age, a fourth generation Melaka Nyonya who has been embroidering kebaya for the past 62 years. After embroidering countless kebayas over the years, she worries that with the pressure of modernization, this distinct art of the Peranakan Chinese community would soon be forgotten.
At this juncture, awareness is crucial in creating interest and appreciation on the art of embroidering kebaya which would then determine the survival of Nyonya kebaya, one of the iconic features of the Peranakan Chinese heritage.
Over the years, embroidered kebaya became synonymous with the Peranakan Chinese community, particularly the Nyonyas. It has evolved through time in terms of ...
