Mu'umu'u

This is a mu’umu’u, an example of indigenous adoption of European clothing in the Pacific Islands.It is a women's garment that is also known as the “mother hubbard” or vinivo in parts of island Melanesia.

Christian Styles

Before Christian missionaries from Europe arrived in the Pacific Islands at the end of the eighteenth century, Pacific Islanders usually wore loin cloths, short skirts, or went without clothing.The missionaries introduced their ideas of decency and fashion to the communities in which they settled,and indigenous items of clothing were replaced by trousers,jackets and long flowing European dresses such as the Mother Hubbard.Such garments were uncomfortable and unsuitable for the climate. However, Pacific Islanders took some of the elements of European fashion, successfully combining them with elements of their own - and have been doing so ever since.

The House of Ariki

This mu’umu’u was made by Mi'i Quarter, a recognised designer/crafts woman within the Cook Islands community in Rarotonga, New Zealand and abroad. It was worn by Pa Ariki of Takitumu at the 40th Anniversary of the House of Ariki (Chiefs) held in Rarotonga on 26 July 2007. This occasion marked the establishment of a legally recognized institution in accordance with the Constitution of the Cook Islands. The House of Ariki consists of fifteen members who advise the government on land use and customary issues.

Acquisition History

This mu'umu'u was acquired from Mi'i Quarter in 2007.