'Afa mamanu

human history

'Afa mamanu. Coil of sennit. This is a bundle of 'afa (sennit). The matofi (raw husk material) has been rolled upon the makers thigh then fili (braided) into an 'afa. The maker has used a fili tolu (three-ply braid) to create the 'afa. The matofi is of a light brown colour, fibrous but refined to the braided form. The colour of the matofi suggests it may have been treated by soaking and exposure to the sun. This 'afa mamanu is held together by a separate length of 'afa which is thinner in comparison. 'Afa mamanu would normally be made by men, or done as a group activity by men. 'Afa mamanu can be used in lieu of nails when building a fale (Samoan house) or va'a (canoes).

Nama tāpiringa: 1969.94 Whakahounga o Mua: 18 Dec 2025
Ingoa Kē

Coil of sennit (English)

Wāhi
Samoa/Pacific
Accession Number

1969.94

Rā Tāpiringa

24 Apr 1969

Tohu Tuakiri Kē

41208 (ethnology)

Wāhanga

Pacific

Uiuitia Tirohanga API
6 Mātātuhi
fibre, 1969.94, 41208, Cultural Permissions Apply Cultural Permissions Apply
Tirohia ngā pikitia ( 6)