Tribal Style 12 Ft Polynesian Tapa Bark Cloth from Tonga
$2,500.00
Large tribal style Polynesian tapa or barkcloth from the South Pacific Island nation of Tonga. The cloth measures over 12 feet wide and over 8 feet high. Handcrafted from the bark of a mulberry tree. The cloth is decorated using wood blocks and painted designs. The numbers on the sides were used as markers of length. Large tapas like this one were exchanged at ceremonies and events like weddings. The cloth has an aged patina with minor losses to commensurate age and use. From an estate in San Francisco, California.
Dimensions: 147"w x 0.01"d x 98"h
Circa: 20th Century, Tonga
Materials: Wood
Condition: Distressed, wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Age appropriate wear with age cracks, tears, and losses as seen in photos. Faded, aged patina commensurate age and use.
