This silver almond-shaped lobed buckle was probably worn together with a matching belt by women of Chinese descent along the Straits of Malacca. Its exact origin is difficult to determine. The motifs on the buckle are all executed in repoussé technique.[1] It is crowded with flowers, animals, and human figures that are characteristically Chinese and which embody symbolic meanings. Among these motifs there are fish, representing abundance, and a crab symbolizing success and prosperity. Among the birds are feng huang, the mythical phoenix, that is considered the most beautiful among the feathered animals. It represents the five human qualities of virtue, duty, correct behaviour, humanity, and reliability. Beneath, to left and right, are qilin, another mythical animal that expresses good wishes, and is believed to bring many sons to the family. The human figures in both the inner as well as the outer rim possibly depict the Eight Immortals. These legendary figures attained immortality through their knowledge and study of the secrets of nature. The flowers in the inner rim most likely depict the flowers of the four seasons, although it is hard to determine which flower represents which season. It is possible that their symbolic meaning have become lost or incorrectly applied during the time when Peranakan Chinese remained abroad for several generations without returning to their homeland (Chin 1991: 54). Even if the motifs are primarily for decorative purposes, this buckle is still an example of beautiful and refined craftsmanship. [1] Repoussé is a technique in which the design is beaten out from the back by using a set of punches. The design is further embellished from the front by engraving, and chasing.