Taga (basket)

These small box-like pandanus baskets were based on older and larger baskets known as taga. These were less elaborately decorated, made with a cover and used to store kilts, skirts and siapo (decorated barkcloth). Taga are no longer made in Samoa and probably disappeared in the mid 19th century with the introduction of wooden chests and coiled baskets. The small size and decorative elements of these baskets may have developed due to the influence of trade and tourism.