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 Cupeng
(Chastity Plate)
Origin: Aceh, Sumatera
Material: Gold, 24 carat
Size: h. 6.5 cm; w. 5.8 cm
Museum Ref: E.122 (11785)
| Cupeng, known in Malay Peninsula
as caping, was introduced in Southeast Asia by Indian traders
in the Sriwijaya kingdom between 7th and 12th century. The cupeng
was very popular in the northern, southern and eastern coast
of Malaysia. In Indonesia, cupeng was largely used by Malay
people living around east coast of Sumatra, Dayak, Bugis and
Makasar tribe. The object is usually called "Penutup Sopan"
(cover for politeness). In Aceh, the object resembles a leaf
in shape and was usually worn by daughters (aged between 2 and
5). The Cupeng was believed to be able to protect the users
from bad spirit. Girls who wore a cupeng were believed to be
growing up. |
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