In the Caroline Islands the art of weaving was thought to have been passed down from divine beings. The indigenous women of the island were very skilled in using a backstrap loom, a knowledge they received from Southeast Asian countries. The Caroline Islands are some of the very few South Sea Islands locales where fiber was loom woven.
This sash, or a tor, would be worn by only high-ranking men for ceremonial purposes. It would be tied around the waist over a grass skirt to anchor it down. The banana fiber is woven on a narrow loom in intricate, geometrical design, incorporating red wool which was highly prized in Micronesia as it is not indigenous.
A very similar sash is in the MET’s collection.
Circa: 19th century
Origin: Caroline Islands, South Pacific
Material: Banana fiber and wool.
Condition: Excellent
Dimensions: 63"x 4"
Inventory number: TX3992
$2,750
SOLD
Call: (646) 370-6801
E-mail us: yosi@sarajo.com





