Samoan Siapo: Bark Cloth and Its Patterns
Olivia Hartwell·Published
Siapo in Samoan Culture
Siapo is Samoan bark cloth, central to ceremonial life. Used at weddings, funerals, and title-bestowing ceremonies.
Production
Made from inner bark of ua (paper mulberry). Multiple sheets joined with arrowroot starch.
Natural Dyes
- Oa bark — reddish-brown
- Candlenut soot — deep black
- Mangrove bark — darker browns
