Chasuble

This is a chasuble, a robe worn by Christian clergy during their performance of ceremonies and rituals. They wear the robe like a poncho over other vestments. Chasubles are often made from fine materials decorated with rich brocade, Christian symbols and imagery.

Decoration

This chasuble is made from white cloth, decorated with Pacific and Christian motifs. The front portrays Jesus as Shepherd, holding a lamb and with other sheep around him. He stands in front of a to`oto`o (staff) and beneath him is a fue (flywhisk). The back portrays Jesus on the cross; below are a multi-legged tanoa fai ‘ava (kava bowl) and two hands holding an ipu ‘ava (kava cup). These painted panels are bordered on each side by a band of siapo (tapa) motifs in brown and black. There is also a single band of geometric motifs around the edges of the chasuble.

Significance

This chasuble is an example of how Christian religion has permeated the social and cultural life of Pacific peoples. The indigenous arts have been greatly influenced by Christianity's literature, teachings and iconography. In a similar way the rituals and ceremonies of Christianity have been shaped by artforms and practices of Pacific peoples and made distinctly "Pacific".

The Carmelite Sisters

This chasuble was made by Sisters at the Carmelite Monastery at Vailima in Sāmoa in 1999.. At the time, they were regularly sewing and decorating vestments for Catholic clergy in Sāmoa and in Sāmoan communities abroad.

The Carmelite Order had its beginnings in the 13th century on Mt Carmel in Palestine. Its members devote themselves to a life of quiet prayer and contemplation. In the 21st century, Carmelite monasteries are found throughout the world. The monastery at Vailima was established in 1959 by seven Sisters from Christchurch, New Zealand.