A RARE Peranakan beadwork tablecloth, created using a million beads, is back on display at The Peranakan Museum after a five week conservation process which cost $80,000.

One of the world's largest and finest examples of Peranakan beadwork, it measures 1.6m by 1.6m and features more than 20 varieties of flowers. The motifs are heavily influenced by designs of the Victorian period, though the colours used are distinctly Peranakan.

The tablecloth, which dates back to the early 20th century, was commissioned by a wealthy family for use during the 12-day Peranakan wedding.

It was acquired by the museum in 2006. It will be the star piece among 300 artefacts headed to Paris' Quai Branly Museum for a three-month show on Peranakan art next year.

Read the full story in Friday's edition of The Straits Times.