Waist-Mat
Date1790-1799
MediumHibiscus fibre
DimensionsObject/Work: 1720 x 560 mm
ClassificationsCostume
Terms
Object numberC03214
DescriptionA Ie'tonga or waist wrap, from Tahiti. It is made of finely woven hibiscus leaf fibre, woven on the diagonal with a deep fibre fringe. These fine mats were worn by people of rank, formed part of the costume of the Taupou virgin and chieftain’s son, and were an important commodity in ceremonial gift exchanges. This one was brought back to England by Captain Wilson after his missionary trip to the Pacific in his ship 'The Duff' in 1796.On View
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