basket

human history

Kato alu. Coiled basket woven from alu. Kato alu are used in special occasions such as weddings, birthdays and funerals, they are exchanged with other koloa as part of Tongan gifting and exchange within family groups. Traditionally they were only used by royalty or those of high status, but nowadays they have become more prevalent amongst all Tongans. This kato alu is circular in shape and black in colour, it has an inner of tu'aniu (coconut midrib) that has been coiled and wrapped with alu (creeper plant) fibre. The outside of the kato is overlaid with kafa to make different patterns.

Nama tāpiringa: 1944.132 Whakahounga o Mua: 10 Sept 2026
Ingoa Kē

kato alu (Tongan)

Wāhi
Tonga/Pacific
Accession Number

1944.132

Rā Tāpiringa

1944

Tohu Tuakiri Kē

27572 (ethnology)

Wāhanga

Pacific

Uiuitia Tirohanga API
15 Mātātuhi
basket, 1944.132, 27572, Cultural Permissions Apply Cultural Permissions Apply
Tirohia ngā pikitia ( 15)