Fiji Tapa Round Mat # 10 - 18"

Description

This tapa mat, made in Fiji, was made from the inner bark of the paper mulberry or the breadfruit tree; the process of making tapa is a Polynesian tradition. The outer bark is stripped and scraped with a shell, then the inner bark is beaten with a wooden club against a hollow length of hardwood. As the materials expand, the sheets are layered one over the other, then interwoven by continuous beating. During this entire process, the cloth is always kept wet, and afterwards it is laid out in the sun to dry. It is then ready to receive its own unique design using natural pigments, usually from kukui nut oil.  This mat, measuring approx. 18" across, features a traditional Fijian design. Rolled and boxed for shipping, these mats make excellent wall hangings, table coverings, decorations, or covers for books. Each mat stamped on the back to show Fiji origin.
<a href="http://www.macromedia.com/shockwave/download/index.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash"> To view the showcase you need Flash 6 or higher. Click here to Install it now.</a><br>--or--<br> <a href="http://stores.sellersourcebook.com/islandgirlz">View Other Listings for islandgirlz</a>