Peranakan Mansion Penang

The main staircase incorporates the use of both local and imported materials in its construction, handrail with balusters of cast iron, from Glasgow, Scotland. A distinct feature of European influence includes the hollowed out design of fleur-de-lis on the decorative ironwork.

Richly decorated with European-styled teak furniture, Victorian ceramic figures and glass epergnes, affluent Baba households even have a separate western-styled dining room meant for entertaining peers and European guests. The dinner service includes porcelain, glass and silverware, all imported from Europe.

In Straits Eclectic and Chinese homes, the front hall or parlor is typically separated from the rest of the house by an ornately carved wooden screen. Directly facing the main door, this timber divider acts as a ‘ spirit wall’ to prevent evil spirits from entering by obstructing their straight paths. The filigree panels also allow the womenfolk to take a peek at visitors where in more traditional households male guests rarely venture beyond this room.

Clockwise: 1. Open courtyard. 2. Living hall. 3.The sewing room with Nyonya dresses, embroideries & beaded shoes. 4. Bridal chamber.

Photos by wloon.com | Jan 2015

The main staircase incorporates the use of both local and imported materials in its construction, handrail with balusters of cast iron, from Glasgow, Scotland.

Rows of small drawers just like the ancient Chinese apothecary cabinet

The door is a beautiful artwork

Photos by RC Studio | Jan 2016

Scottish ironworks on the balcony

The bridal chamber – ancient Chinese gilt canopy bed

The hall with portraits on the wall that look like some high ranking official or aristocrat

The sewing room