Tapa barkcloth, 1940s
Samoaexpand_more
Barkclothexpand_more
Gift of Janet Koplos in memory of Alta Golden Edwardsexpand_more 2019.127
Not on Viewexpand_more
Technically not a textile, since it is not woven, tapa barkcloth is predominantly manufactured from the soft inner bark of the paper mulberry tree, strips of which are soaked, pounded, and then glued or felted together to produce large sheets. Traditionally, barkcloth was used for clothing, bedding, as gifts in rites of passage, and as a form of currency. Barkcloth continues to play a vital role in ceremonial life in many areas of Polynesia, and for many decades has also been made for the international market.
Details
- Title
- Tapa barkcloth
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2019.127
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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