Designed by Sela Smith, as part of the Dee Why Tongan women's group for ceremonial use.

The belt displays an inventive combination of contemporary materials worked with customary objects.

Used in performances in Sydney, including Tongan ceremony performed at the opening of "Pirating the Pacific", Sept. 1993.

Ceremonial belt, Kafa (traditionally made in Tonga), glass/plastic/fabric/shells/hair, Sela Smith, Tonga/Australia, 1990-1993. Black synthetic, plaited-braid, waist-band with six bands of layered, threaded ornament consisting of: 1. clusters of flat, synthetic, irradescent leaf/flower clusters alternating with red/gold plastic stars; 2. white cowrie shells strung between clear, glass beads; 3.loops of red/white/gold glass beads strung with red plastic star clusters; 4. gold plastic stars threaded with pink/red stars; 5. white cowrie shells backed by irradescent green plastic stars; 6. large loops of black synthetic briad threaded with dense bunches of pink/white star beads, gold plastic stars/sequins/pearls bordered with clear glass drop beads.

Designed: Smith, Sela; Dee Why, New South Wales

Designed: Dee Why Tongan Women's Group; Dee Why, New South Wales

Made: Smith, Sela; Dee Why, New South Wales; 1990 - 1993

Made: Dee Why Tongan Women's Group; Dee Why, New South Wales; 1990 - 1993


Used: Smith, Sela; Sydney

94/265/3