Rare Maori Rapaki Kilt/Cape with Braided Waistband

An exceptional Rapaki (kilt/cape), a rare early Maori Rapaki. Rapaki were worn similar to piupiu but offered the wearer significant added protection from the elements. Sometimes referred to as raincapes (which evidence suggest they doubled as), rapaki form their own category of textiles similar to the kilts of the Scottish highlands. Early utilitarian textiles of this nature rarely survive outside of museums as the early Collectors favoured the highly decorated cloaks over the functional everyday clothing. This fine example has a thick braided waist-band, softly woven muka body and thrums of rolled and dried flax. In custom presentation frame with Uv glass. Private collection - Aotearoa.