Publisher/Date: Muzium Negara 1988 ISBN: 9679-93502-7

Format/Condition: New softcover is in fine condtion. Profusely illustrated in color.

Description: From the preface: There are a number of written works that have been published in the past about the history and culture of the Malaysian society. Relatively little, however, has been said about its material objects, specifically, gold jewelry and clothing ornaments that have been used by the various Malaysian ethnic groups. This book, which is in catalogue form, is the first of its kind which has been compiled to provide not only a written record but a work of reference for researchers.

Since no written information exists on the various aspects of jewelry making and usage, it has been necessary to research the subject. However, many contradictions arose during the research, particularly with regard to the terminology used to describe certain objects, patterns, and methods of manufacture. No attempt has been made to cover each and everyone of these isolated terms. Instead, straightforward English terms have been used as heading for each of the sections. In order to give the researcher more in- sight into the subject, Malay terms in a standardized form have been used for easier identification. This catalogue, which focuses strictly on jewelry and clothing ornaments made of gold, is based solely on the museum’s collection. Apart from private collectors, the Ethnology Department of the Muzium Negara is the only body to set about acquiring, with any determination, the gold jewelry and ornaments of our forebears. Unfortunately, the collection still remains incomplete and does not give as comprehensive a picture of Peninsular jewelry through the ages as the museum would like to provide.

Among other things, through this compilation of its jewelry collection, Muzium Negara hopes to kindle an interest among modern designers of jewelry by providing them with a source of inspiration among the wealth of motifs and patterns from the past. In this way the charm of the past may be carried on into the present and reflect the richness of our Malaysian cultural heritage.