Unknown artist
Samoan Oratory Mat
Artwork Detail
This rare textile is a ceremonial mat for a Samoan orator to sit upon while delivering an elaborate spoken tribute. The painting’s designs are considered to be variations of celestial star patterns. They function like maps to assist a journey. There is also a parallel with traditional Samoan tatau (tattoo) designs. (Te Moananui a Kiwa, 2005)
- Title
- Samoan Oratory Mat
- Artist/creator
- Production date
- circa 1940
- Medium
- ink on tapa cloth
- Dimensions
- 1200 x 1700 mm
- Credit line
- Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, Chartwell Gift Collection, 2013
- Accession no
- 2013/19/8
- Other ID
- C1997/1/20 Old Accession Number
- Copyright
- Copying restrictions apply
- Department
- International Art
- Display status
- Not on display
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