Cake mold

This mold was used to make red tortoise cake, called kue ku or kue ang ku on the day that a baby turned one month old, that is 30 days or one lunar month. It is a still day of celebration among Peranakan Chinese. The cake has the shape of a tortoise as it symbolizes longevity. It is made from glutinous rice flour with a sweet mung bean filling. This day also marks the end of the mother’s period of rest and staying at home after giving birth, and she resumes her duties as wife and housekeeper. More importantly, a ceremony is held for the newborn. The baby is dressed up in new, bright coloured clothes and formally presented to family and friends,. Its hair may be cut for the first time. Prayers are held and food is offered with the request for blessings and a long life for the child.

Java; first half-20th century; wood