rubbing tablet

Kupesi. Patterned rubbing board. This kupesi is made from different parts of a coconut tree. The backing is made from layers of kaka(coconut sheath) that have been cut to size and layered on top of each other. The kupesi itself is made from tu'aniu (coconut midrib) that has been sewn on and secured with pulu'i niu (coconut sennit). The kupesi is the coat of arms of Tonga which includes the flag of Tonga, three stars to represent each island group, three swords to represent the three ruling dynasties, the olive branch and dove to represent the wish of Gods peace to rule in Tonga forever, and the crown to represent the current ruling monarch. The script on the bottom reads "Koe 'otua mo Tonga ko hoku tofi'a" which translates to "God and Tonga are my inheritance" this is the motto of all Tongans.