PARADISEGYPSY MATS

The mats in the photos below are only examples of what this type of mat looks like. Each mat is unique and are NOT made to order.
These are the smallest of the Samoan Fine Mats called an 'IE TOGA.They are decorated with hand-dyed feathers. The 'IE TOGA was, and still is, the most important part of Samoan traditional gift-giving (apart from food). 'Ie Toga are given as gifts at events marking major life events (births, weddings, funerals, title taking). May also be given to honoured guests and can be critical components in attempts at reconciliation and peace making. 'Ie Toga would sometimes be worn wrapped around the body on ceremonial occasions such as weddings, government occasions, and performances of cultural significance. These mats are made from the Pandanus Leaf which is first anchored in the sea until bleached almost white, then dried in the sun and steamed to make more flexible. The pandanus strips are then skillfully (this has taken many years of practice!) handwoven into this shape and then decorated with colored feathers.
I do not sell the larger, finer white 'Ie Toga or the large tiny-strand older brown 'Ie Toga. The type of mat in the photos below is the only type of mat I sell. Most of these mats are NOT NEW as they get passed around from occasion to occasion.
Prices: These type of Samoan mats in the first photo are $25.00 each (plus shipping) or over 5 for $20.00 each and slightly longer ones would be $30.00 to $35.00 (plus shipping)