Kafa

human history

Kafa. Girdle. Kafa is coconut sennit cordage which has many uses in the Pacific. It can be used to lash fale (houses), vaka (canoes), or any two, materials together in lieu of nails. Kafa can also function as a girdle to tie and hold up ta'ovala (waistmat). Strands of pulu'i niu (coconut husk) are plaited into long strips, these are then used to weave or chain plait this kafa. Either end is finished off in a 3 ply plait. The pulu'i niu is a dark rich brown colour possibly indicating age.

Accession number: 1931.390 Last Update: 22 Nov 2024
Other Name

sennit binding (English)

Place
[Tonga]/Pacific [Fiji]/Pacific
Accession Number

1931.390

Accession Date

23 Jul 1931

Other Id

16639 (ethnology)

Department

Pacific

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Kafa, 1931.390, 16639, Cultural Permissions Apply
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