Six long, narrow pieces of paper mulberry barkcloth/tapa. Each is pieced together from shorter sections with some overlap at the joins. The lengths run straight with cut edges. Each barkcloth is completely decorated on one side with a variety of stenciled geometric designs applied in a dark reddish brown dye. Each design unit is separated by banding that runs perpendicularly to the edge. A glossy black layer is applied over the dye. On the undecorated sides, the barkcloth is a ecru color and has a matte finish. Blue lines, that look like pen lines appear to be part of the design. (2 of 6) is two lengths that have been taped together along one seam to double the width. See Anthropology Conservation Lab Treatment Report for information about the condition of the barkcloth. This barkcloth was used to dress the "Ribbon Man" Fijian chief mannequin which went on display in Hall 8, Unit 28, at NMNH in 1989 and was removed from display in 2005 (mannequin was originally used, dressed in different barkcloth, for the "Magnificent Voyagers" temporary exhibit of 1985-1986). This barkcloth was used again to dress the "Ribbon Man" Fijian chief mannequin in the National Museum of Natural History exhibit "Objects of Wonder", 2017 - 2025. Exhibit label notes: "In Fiji, lesser chiefs offer barkcloth (called masi) to higher chiefs as ceremonial gifts. To present the masi, the lesser chief wraps himself in the fabric, then disrobes with a dramatic flourish. Hundreds of feet of looped and folded masi go into the elaborate display."
