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Overview
This is an 'au sogiaso lapo'a.(large tattooing implement). It is part of the tool kit of the tufuga ta tatau (Samoan tattooist) that is made up of several small hand-held tools and accessories. They are finely crafted and made to be precise. The form and function of these tools have changed little over time but conservation and hygiene concerns have led to changes in the materials from which they are made. The basic tool kit comprises a set of tattoo tools, a short wooden rod or mallet, a mortar and pestle and a palette for mixing the pigment.Each individual ‘au has three parts: a comb, a shell plate, and a wooden handle. A set of ‘aucomprises oftools of various sizes, each designed for a different purpose. Tools with a wide comb are used for filling in large dark areas of the tatau, while narrow combs are used for very fine lines, small designs, and dots.
Significance
This ‘au sogiaso lapo'a was made in 2012. It is constructed in the Samoan style comprising of three components: a small comb (or chisel) fixed to a small plate, and a wooden handle to which the comb and plate are attached. However, there are three main modifications that distinguish this ‘au from other examples in the Te Papa collections. Firstly, the comb, which perforates and delivers the pigment into the skin, is usually made from small sections of boar’s tusk with a row of very fine sharp teeth cut into them. In this example, the tusk has been replaced with a row of metal needles soldered together. Secondly, the plate that has the comb attached to it is made of a black synthetic material. Usually this would be turtle shell or as in late twentieth century examples, a piece of acrylic or perspex. Thirdly, the plate and comb are lashed with strands of nylon fishing line to a thin stick which forms a handle. Older examples of ‘au would feature the use of thin line made from coconut fibre.
The materials used in the manufacture of this ‘au, highlight the way Samoan tattooists are changing their tools and practices within the context of international tattooing. For Samoan tattooists who participate at international tattooing conventions and tattoo among Samoan communities across the world, there is a growing awareness of hygiene and health and safety. Tools made from synthetic and metal materials are easier to clean and reduce the risks of infection.
Acquisition History
This ‘au was made by Su'a Paulo Sulu’ape III, who is the son of leading contemporary Samoan tufuga ta tatau (master tattooist) Su'a Sulu’ape Alaiva’a Petelo. Paulo visited Te Papa as part of a Samoan malaga (travelling party) of artists on 12 and 13 June 2012 and two tools were acquired for the Pacific Cultures collections.