They are traditionally made and unique to the Southern Polynesian islands of Fiji, Tonga and Samoa (although other countries produce similar type crafts).

The bark of the mature paper Mulberry tree is stripped, soaked and beaten flat with a wooden mallet and then stretched to paper thin sheets which can be single, or combined and bonded into very large sheets and mats.

The distinctive patterning is produced using vegetable dyes and often applied using coconut spines or also banana leaf stencils. All designs have a black and dark brown outline,

The results are these wonderful ethnic 'works of art' which have been used for centuries in the islands in wedding ceremonies, for room dividers, clothing and floor mats.

Nowadays they have become popular collector's items as well used widely in interior design, stage sets and Polynesian Bar designs etc,

A high quality without blemish piece approx 43cm X 25cm (17" X 10")

Please not the pattern is the same but each mat varies very slightly due to being hand made although they vary very little.