The Pinang Peranakan Museum is dedicated to the cultural heritage of the Peranakans. This community also called the Nyonyas and Babas, were a well-known people of Chinese ethnicity who adapted to the local environment, creating a unique hybrid culture. Many of this community made their home in the Straits Settlements – in Malacca, Penang and Singapore – thus earning their alternative name, Straits Chinese.
Borrowing certain cultural elements from the local inhabitants, the Malays, and in later times, the British colonists, the Peranakans developed unique customs and a distinctive lifestyle which not only created a host of antique artefacts prized by collectors; their influence on the local language and cuisine may still be discerned today.
At the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, as the museum is also called, the traditional residence of a wealthy Baba as it may have existed a century ago, has been painstakingly recreated. By doing so it is hoped to convey an idea of such a person’s luxurious lifestyle and distinctive traditions and customs.
The original mansion at the site was the residence of one of the most prominent and renowned individuals of the region, Kapitan Cina Chung Keng Kwee. Although he was not actually a Baba himself, his residence closely resembled that of a wealthy Peranakan. This Chinese style courtyard mansion incorporated elements of diverse origins, such as Chinese carved panels, Scottish ironwork and floor tiles of English design. Having survived decades of decay and neglect, the residence has been refurbished comprehensively to its former stately grandeur.
A vast selection of collectibles and antiques, numbering more than 1,000, all representative of the culture of the period, may be seen on display. Chambers of particular interest at the mansion includes the Dining Hall with its European style teakwood furniture, ceramic figurines and glass ornaments. The Front Hall with its ornate wooden screen is another highlight. The handsome main staircase features both imported and local elements in its appearance, including handrails featuring Scottish ironwork and European style influences.
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