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Explore Alvin Yapp’s Fascinating Peranakan Museum

Stephanie Cherry03 mins

Collectors

Inside Alvin Yapp’s Peranakan Museum

Alvin Yapp is a collector and owner of the Intan, a Peranakan heritage museum in Singapore. Scroll through the gallery to see more images from its collection.
Alvin Yapp is a collector and owner of the Intan, a Peranakan heritage museum in Singapore. Scroll through the gallery to see more images from its collection.
The Intan says it has the largest collection of "kasut manet," or Peranakan beaded slippers, in Singapore.
The Intan says it has the largest collection of “kasut manet,” or Peranakan beaded slippers, in Singapore.
An altar cloth pictured hanging from the museum's walls.
An altar cloth pictured hanging from the museum’s walls.
The entrance of the Intan, which contains items once belonging to the Peranakans, an ethnic group descended from Chinese settlers.
The entrance of the Intan, which contains items once belonging to the Peranakans, an ethnic group descended from Chinese settlers.
Visitors are invited to sit on mother-of-pearl chairs at the entrance of the Intan. Peranakan families would place these at the entrance of their homes to display their wealth.
Visitors are invited to sit on mother-of-pearl chairs at the entrance of the Intan. Peranakan families would place these at the entrance of their homes to display their wealth.
The design of Peranakan jewelry was influenced by Indian jewels and is mostly made from gold.
The design of Peranakan jewelry was influenced by Indian jewels and is mostly made from gold.

Visit the Intan Museum

The Intan museum, managed by passionate collector Alvin Yapp, showcases a vibrant collection of Peranakan artifacts that represent a unique blend of cultures. This museum is a treasure trove for those interested in history, art, and anthropology.

The Rich Heritage of the Peranakan Community

The Peranakan people, descendants of Chinese immigrants who settled in the Malay Archipelago, boast a rich culture that is reflected in their art, clothing, and cuisine. At the Intan, visitors can observe how this community preserved its traditions over the years.

Noteworthy Collections

  • Kasut Manet: Experience the largest collection of Peranakan beaded slippers in Singapore.
  • Jewelry: The unique designs of Peranakan jewelry are heavily influenced by Indian aesthetics, primarily crafted from gold.
  • Traditional Textiles: Discover the intricate details of beautifully crafted altar cloths and other textiles that tell the story of the Peranakan lifestyle.

Experience the Atmosphere

Consequently, the museum’s entrance features mother-of-pearl chairs, a symbol of wealth and status among Peranakan families. Moreover, the inviting atmosphere allows visitors to immerse themselves in the history and traditions of this unique ethnic group.

Conclusion

Visiting the Intan is more than just seeing artifacts; it is a journey into the heart of the Peranakan heritage. This museum serves as a vital link between past and present, providing insights that resonate with everyone, from casual visitors to serious historians.

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