Malay Silver and Gold: Courtly Splendour from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei and Thailand

by Michael Backman

• First book with color images on highly collectible Malay silver • Hundreds of items photographed and catalogued, many from private collections never before published • One of the world's leading dealers in Malay silver Malay Silver and Gold tells not only the story of Malay gold and silverware but also that of the Malay people, with particular emphasis on the banqueting items, the regalia, the betel sets, the jewelry and even the gold and silver mounted weapons of the 18th and 19th centuries. Through hundreds of photographs, many from private collections and never before published, and meticulous research across a multitude of sources. Michael Backman provides a definitive guide to Malay silver and gold and lays to rest many misconceptions. He identifies items not previously thought to be of Malay origin, and conversely points out those pieces once thought to be Malay which are not. Through his detailed analysis, Michael Backman shows that collectors, curators and colonialism have distorted our view of the Malays and their precious gold and silver treasures, and in so doing, reveals a rich and sophisticated legacy.

296 pages, Hardcover

Published April 23, 2024

About the author

Michael Backman is an Australian-born writer who now resides in London. Much of his writing relates to Asia’s economies, business, culture and politics.

Reviews

[Aileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is richly illustrated and meticulously researched exploration of the exquisite silver and gold craftsmanship of the Malay people across Southeast Asia. This groundbreaking book, the first comprehensive study on the subject in over a century, delves into the intricate artistry of Malay princely regalia, banqueting items, betel sets, jewelry, and gold- and silver-encased weapons, showcasing their cultural and historical significance. With hundreds of previously unpublished photographs, it highlights the sophistication and splendor of Malay artisans, revealing a legacy that spans Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, and southern Thailand.
Reading this book made me celebrates the aesthetic beauty of these artifacts but also tells the broader story of the Malay people, their courts, their traditions and proud to be Malay too. Backman challenges misconceptions shaped by 19th-century colonialism and collecting practices, which distorted perceptions of Malay craftsmanship. He identifies previously unrecognized Malay gold items crafted for the 18th-century European market and corrects misattributions in museum collections. A standout feature is Chapter 9, "A Taxonomy of Motifs," which vividly illustrates how Malay silversmiths drew inspiration from nature, transforming floral and plant forms into intricate designs.
This work restores the Malays to the heart of Southeast Asia’s commercial and cultural history, situating their artistry within the broader Islamic world. Ideal for collectors, curators, and enthusiasts, the book is a vibrant tribute to Malay heritage, evoking pride in Malaysia’s cultural roots and offering a deeper appreciation for the region’s artistic legacy.