An ʻie tōga is a special finely woven mat that is an important item of cultural value in Samoa. They are commonly referred to in English as "fine mats" although they are never used as mats as they only have a purely cultural value. ʻIe tōga are valued by the quality of the weave and the softness and shine of the material. They are made by women and form an important part of their role, identity and skill in their community.
Common type of ʻie toga with a coarse weave sold at a market in Samoa.
Three matai chiefs, the two older men bearing the symbols of orator status – the fue (flywhisk made of organic sennit rope with a wooden handle) over their left shoulder. The central elder holds the orator's wooden staff (toʻotoʻo) of office. His garment is an ʻie tōga. The other two men wear tapa cloth with patterned designs.
Fa'amatai is the indigenous political ('chiefly') system of Samoa, central to the organization of Samoan society. It is the traditional indigenous form of governance in both Samoas, comprising American Samoa and the Independent State of Samoa. The term comprises the prefix fa'a and the word matai.
Three matai, the two older men bearing the symbols of orator chief status – the fue (flywhisk made of organic sennit rope with a wooden handle) over their left shoulder. The central elder holds the orator's wooden staff (to'oto'o) of office and wears an 'ie toga, fine matting. The other two men wear tapa cloth with patterned design
Lepea village with round meeting houses where matai meetings take place and open commons area (malae) for outdoor ceremonies.
Government Building in the capital Apia housing administrative ministerial offices.
High chief Seumanutafa Pogai of Apia, c. 1890–1910. (photo by Thomas Andrew)
