Flowers In The Chinese New Village ![]() Window grilles of yesteryear A timeless masterpiece in both form and function. ......
Windows, a glimpse into homes I stood by a house, enjoying the rendition of One Little Umbrella streaming from within. I noticed various kinds of windows here in Kampung Suria Mentakab. There were casements, louvres and even mosquito nets used as windows. ...... Iron grilles on doors and windows The iron grilles on the gates, doors or windows of every home I encountered were a charming features in my walk around the village. These unique classic iron grilles display aesthetics across different eras. Functionally, the addition of iron grilles to doors and windows means an added layer of protection against intruders. Aesthetically, they enhance the beauty of a building as a feature piece. As the sun casts a shadow over these grilles, geometric patterns form against the walls or floor. This shadow, a living “art”, changes its form with every movement of the sun throughout the day. ...... Iron grilles in Malaysia Malaysian iron grilles were initially simple. Their designs were either in grid, horizontal or vertical lines. However, during the British colonisation, grille designs were influenced by Western architectures as those on colonial buildings and churches. Dignitaries and wealthy businessmen slowly gained awareness and appreciation towards these grilles. Gradually these grilles were used in the homes of the common people. Their designs grew more elaborate to include patterns such as flowers, squares, circles, and “S” shapes, beautifying neighbourhoods all around. Every part of these grilles are made manually in a series of complex steps. Iron plates are first cut and bent individually. They are then welded together according to their size before being installed onto a window or door. Every step is time-consuming, labour-intensive, and painstakingly handmade; its craftsmanship truly is a work of art and skill. ...... The cycle is vicious as grilles dwindle in popularity due to the time and cost taken for its production. In turn, the industry wanes due to consumers favouring modern designs and cheaper mass- produced grilles. This then reduces the number of Malaysian grille craftsmen as the younger generation loses interest in this trade.
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AuthorLam Ching Fu Archives
January 2024
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