Indonesia is often referred to as the Emerald of the Equator, as its sprawling islands resemble jewels strung across the line that divides the Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Ornate bracelets and finger coverings, too, adorn the length of the arms and hands of a Palembang bride from South Sumatra, signifying her beauty, status, and connection to her cultural heritage.
Primarily worn are the gelang kano, which are large wide bracelets with intricate filigrees, and the gelang sempuru narrow studded bangles. These bracelets symbolize elegance, while gold as the typically used material represents prosperity.
The tanggai set of finger coverings complement the bracelets, and are placed on all fingers, except the thumbs. The delicate and elaborate designs are a testament to the level of craftmanship, and reflect the significance of the occasion and the bride’s venerated position. The intricate designs also speak of the hope for unity and harmony as the bride embarks on her new journey in life. In some traditions, the tanggai are believed to bring blessings and provide spiritual protection, safeguarding the bride’s well-being and happiness.
The tanggai play an essential role in the tari pagar pengantin traditional wedding dance, which is performed by the bride—accompanied by four of her bridesmaids—to welcome the guests. Philosophically, the dance is an expression of the bride’s wish for the blessings of her parents and God as she bids farewell to her family to start her own.
