Pacific Studies
Abstract
This article explores the traditional Tongan art of lalava, an ornamental lashing technique using kafa sennit cords on royal fale hau structures. Drawing from oral traditions, interviews with practitioners like Tamale Mohenoa, and field observations, it examines lalava's architectural, cultural, and historical roles, including patterns (kupesi) encoding royal genealogies, social hierarchies, and navigation knowledge. The study highlights its evolution, exclusive practitioners from the Tamale lineage in Niutou Village, and significance in Tongan heritage amid modernization.
Recommended Citation
Lolomāna‘ia, Tapukitea
(2024)
"LALAVA IN TONGA,"
Pacific Studies: Vol. 47:
No.
2, Article 2.
Available at:
https://digitalcollections.byuh.edu/pacific-studies-journal/vol47/iss2/2
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