Turtle Tapa Siapo Samoa 10294

Experience the Art of Heritage – Siapo Tapa Cloth from Samoa
Bring home a piece of Polynesian tradition with Siapo, the exquisite hand-crafted tapa cloth of Samoa. Made from the inner bark of the mulberry tree and decorated using natural dyes, each Siapo is a unique expression of Samoan culture, storytelling, and artistry. Whether used as wall art, ceremonial decor, or a meaningful gift, Siapo adds warmth, history, and authenticity to any space. Own more than a cloth - own a legacy.
 
Samoan Siapo 670 x 350mm. Siapo is the name for the fine cloth made from the beaten bast (inner bark ) of the Paper Mulberry tree (Broussonetia papyrifera) and is generically known as Tapa throughout the Pacific. Its manufacture is a time consuming process involving harvesting the bast layers from the tree and beating and felting it together with wooden beaters to form large sheets. It is then rubbed on a wooden printing block to impress a pattern then overpainted several times. It is still made for custom use in Samoa as floor mats and bedding and in made into garments. It is used as gifts at weddings, and as presentation to dignitaries. Local interest in the time consuming craft is kept alive as it has been since the 1930s by using it in the traditional customs of old, while extra is made in more manageable sizes to sell to visitors as art. Our modern Siapo are made by generations of family Siapo makers on the island of Savaii while vintage pieces come from old collections and estates.
 
In Samoa, the turtle (known as laumei) holds deep cultural, spiritual, and ecological importance. Here’s a breakdown of its significance:
🐢 Cultural & Mythological Importance
Spiritual Symbolism: Turtles are considered sacred in many Polynesian cultures, including Samoa. They’re often seen as symbols of wisdom, protection, and endurance.
Myths & Legends: Samoan legends often feature turtles as powerful or spiritual beings. One popular story tells of a turtle and a shark (O le Laumei ma le Malie) who transform into animals to protect a village, and this tale is tied to a specific location in the village of Vaitogi in American Samoa.
Chiefly Symbol: The turtle is sometimes associated with high status or chiefly titles, embodying qualities like patience, longevity, and leadership.
🌊 Ecological Importance
Turtles are important to Samoa’s marine ecosystems. Species like the green sea turtle and hawksbill turtle help maintain the balance of coral reefs and seagrass beds.
🎨 Art & Tattoos
The turtle is a common motif in Samoan tatau (tattoos), carvings, and artwork. It often symbolizes navigation, family, and connection to the ocean.
🚫 Conservation & Respect
Due to their sacred status and ecological role, there are taboos (tapu) around harming or eating turtles in many areas. There’s also growing emphasis on protecting them, especially as they are endangered.