Oceania, New Caledonia, Kanak, ca. early 20th century CE. A wooden tapa beater, used for making cloth, hand-made from tropical hardwood with a rich red-brown hue. A cylindrical handle forms one end of the object, which then widens to form a wider beating surface, the sides of which are tightly incised with vertical lines. Tapa is a particular kind of bark cloth that is made in the South Pacific Islands, mainly Tonga, Samoa, and Fiji, but also as far afield as Hawaii and New Zealand. Tapa was introduced to the western world in the late 18th century by Captain Cook's first expedition, where it was collected under the direction of Joseph Banks and brought to Europe. In Polynesian society, the cloth is of great social importance and is often given as a gift; however, prior to the introduction of synthetic fabrics, it was also used for everyday wear. Today it is worn only at special occasions such as weddings. Size: 2.65" W x 10.1" H (6.7 cm x 25.7 cm); 12" H (30.5 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-Michael Evans collection, New Zealand, 2009

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#153886

Extensive wear on surface, notably on one side, including some fissures and losses from the pounding motion. However, form is nicely preserved, with a rich patina. Old collection label low on handle.