item details
NameTa'ovala (smoked mat - waist ornament)
Production'Ilaisaane Po'oi; maker/artist; 2013; Tonga
Classificationmats
Materialsplant fibre, tape
Techniqueshand weaving, sewing
DimensionsOverall: 1765mm (width), 1000mm (length)
Registration NumberFE013002
Credit linePurchased 2013
Overview
Background
This ta'ovala (smoked mat used as a waist ornament) was made by 'Ilaisaane Po'oi in Tonga who travelled to the Pasifika festival in Auckland 2013 for the purposes of selling and sharing crafts and art work.
Construction
The ta'ovala is woven from pandanus leaves and smoked using sugar cane. There is a border of manulua motif designs in the mat's natural colour, and three Tongan coat of arms. There are also three sets of stars and the word TONGA is also visible twice on the cloth mat. Black material has been machine-sewn to the edging.
Acquisition History
This object was purchased by Te Papa Pacific Cultures staff at the 2013 Pasifika Festival held in Auckland City, New Zealand.