Kilt or Cape (Piupiu)

Piupiu were worn over the shoulder, as well as around the waist. The bold triangular patterns used to decorate this piece suggest it was made in the late nineteenth century when decorated areas became more prominent. The design was made by scraping the strands of flax to remove the shiny outer skin and the porous interior section was dyed black with a vegetal dye. The flax strands, called hukahuka, were then folded and inserted into the plaited band used to tie the garment around the shoulders or waist. The maker squeezed as many strands into the band as possible, which increased the swishing sound as the wearer moved his body.