This paper explores the origin, formation and certain aspects of the spread of the unique aesthetic of the culture of Chinese settlers in Southeast Asia – Peranakan. The author concentrates on the modification of Han pictorial codes in Southeast Asia and the transformation of the basic Peranakan formula into a cheerful aesthetic “with a tropical twist” spreading throughout the world. Noting the universality of the traditional values of some other cultures, the author believes that the Peranakan aesthetic manage to remain recognizable, original and stylistically alluring.
cultural anthropology; Greater China; Peranakan culture; Huaqiao; Baba-Nyonya culture; Singapore; Southeast Asia; aesthetics of colour; Straits Chinese; mixed identity; Chineseness.