Does this green-hued mansion intrigue you? This is the Pinang Peranakan Mansion. It stands as a testament to Penang’s unique Peranakan heritage.
The Pinang Peranakan Mansion was once known as Hai Kee Chan. This Hokkien phrase means Sea Remembrance Hall. Chung Keng Quee built it in the late 19th century. He was a Kapitan China of Perak. He was also one of Penang’s richest men.
In 1893, Chung Keng Quee bought this land. The Ghee Hin, a rival secret society, previously used it. Chung’s Hai San society had clashed with them. This led to the Ghee Hin’s decline after the 1867 Penang Riots.
The Pinang Peranakan Mansion showcases Straits Eclectic style. It mixes European and Chinese designs. Originally, it was painted white. A five-foot way runs along the building’s side. The interior features wide courtyards. These resemble Chinese townhouses of that time.
Chung acquired European furnishings for his mansion. He used Scottish cast ironworks. He also used Stoke-on-Trent ceramic floor tiles. These blended with Chinese elements. Carved wooden panels and screens adorned the walls.
Next to the Pinang Peranakan Mansion, Chung built a temple. It honored him. A life-sized statue of Chung stands inside. Portraits of Chung and his family decorate the temple.
Chung Keng Quee died in 1901. His descendants inherited the mansion. Sadly, it gradually fell into disrepair. In the 1990s, a property developer acquired it. He repainted it green. He transformed it into a museum. It showcases Penang’s Peranakan culture. It houses over 1000 Peranakan antiques.
The Pinang Peranakan Mansion has appeared in several TV shows. These include The Little Nyonya. It also featured in The Amazing Race and The Amazing Race Asia. Even the film Crazy Rich Asians showcased this beauty.
The Pinang Peranakan Mansion’s dining hall is a highlight. It is called Tok Panjang. Mirrors and entrances are placed strategically around the table. Baba could see the main entrance. He could also see the side entrance. The staircase was visible too. This showcases Feng Shui principles. Ornate Chinese partitions separate the sections. These are said to break evil spirits. They promote good vibes.
The Pinang Peranakan Mansion also features Chinese attires. Tiny shoes were worn by Nyonya. They followed the custom of foot binding. Marriage blouses called Kebaya are also displayed. Red was the color for wedding outfits.
The upper floor reveals private chambers. Here, you can see a ceremonial marriage bed. A basket beneath it contains a cock and a hen. Customs dictated observing which bird ran out first. This predicted the gender of the firstborn.
The Pinang Peranakan Mansion blends colonial influences. Scottish tiles form the floors. Glass domes called Gelai Tulup were made for bridal chambers. Figurines from Thailand and Germany are enclosed within. The domes themselves were made in England.
Today, the Pinang Peranakan Mansion stands as a vibrant museum. It preserves and celebrates the unique Peranakan culture. It offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the past. It is now a significant landmark in George Town. It enchants every visitor.