Our guides told us they had a nice surprise for us. We were visiting a private Singapore home and museum dedicated to “Peranakan” culture. I knew the term, but really didn’t have a grasp of the history . The video below gives a fascinating overview of this amazing culture.

Lisa and Ray were enthralled with the collections.

An altar table dedicated to worshipping ancestors.

I love the ornately decorated and carved fuirniture.

Marla and Lisa make purchases in the main room.

Marla chose a beautifully embroidered purse.

The table is set in what could have been a Peranakan household in the late 1920’s. Note the blending of Chinese and European design elements.

The traditions followed for the Peranakan wedding, especially, many years ago, were fascinating.

A fabulous wedding bed.

This is one of the most intricately carved beds I’ve ever seen.

Inside the bed.

We watched a presentation on Perankan history and culture.

Early photos of a Perankan man and woman.

Beaded work was very important.

Beautiful hand beading on the shoes.

The amount of intricate hand work is amazing.

Fabulous fabrics.

Many of the husbands in early Peranakan households were educated in Europe. They wanted their homes to blend elements of East and West.

Snack time.

Our group sat on two tables and enjoyed local sweets and tea.

Our hostess pointed to early Peranakan style beautful shophouses.

Our group photo. We were a very diverse group which included doctors, historians, business professionals, and teachers.

Photos: Dick Gentry. Not to be used without permission.

Next week we board the Belmond Eastern & Oriental Express train for an excursion in the Malaysian jungle.