Bark Cloth, Samoa, Siapo
- paper
-
76 x 94 in
(193.04 x 238.76 cm)
- Salavao Tiapula
“Large, traditional tapa cloths are nearly always divided into rectangular compartments, then frequently subdivided with geometric patterns. Motifs are repeated in series. Large Tongan Ngatu made for ceremonial use (launima) were measured in sections and numbered (up to 52) along the edges. These huge textiles were typically cut into four or five large pieces and distributed among guests.” From Marla Mallett.
Siapo, also known as tapa, is one of the oldest Samoan cultural art forms. Siapo is not only a decorative art, it is a symbol of Samoan culture. It's uses include clothing, burial shrouds, bed covers, ceremonial garments and much more. There are two forms of Siapo, Siapo 'Elei (The Rubbing Method) and Siapo Mamanu (The Freehand Method).
Made by Salavao Tiapula in the 1960s. She came from Western Samoa as a “Taupou” or princess. She married Chief Tafau Tiapuula before WWII and they had eleven children, may of which attended college in California.
Techniques:
Culture/Origin: Samoan
Geographic Location: American Samoa
Credit Line: Gift of John Powell
- Created: c. 1974
- Inventory Number: 2002.290.002