'Ato ta'ita'i

human history

'Ato ta’ita’i. Hand bag. This is a hand woven 'ato ta'ita'i. It has been woven to form an oval base with a long depth for the sides. A plain lalaga (weave) lines the interior of the 'ato (basket; bag). It has been woven with lau fala (pandanus leaf). The exterior layer of the 'ato however has been woven from lau niu (coconut palm leaf). It portrays a twill style of lalaga. The 'au (handles) are also made of lau fala and have been braided using the fili lua (two-ply technique). A serrated-style band also made from lau fala has been used to border the edges of the base internally and externally as well as the opening around the rim. It's entirety is neutral in colour, the lau fala used is of a pale beige and the lau niu is of a light brown beige colour. This style of 'ato could be of personal use such as shopping or for lotu (church).

Accession number: 1998.62.4 Last Update: 18 Dec 2025
Other Name

Hand bag (English)

Accession Number

1998.62.4

Accession Date

1998

Other Id

55299 (ethnology)

55306 (incorrect number)

2011.x.792 (temporary accession number)

Department

Pacific

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