Poster | A Paoa for Peace | Nukunoni

Following a chain of contentious incidents initiated by an assault claim made by a wife from Vaipae-pae-o-Pau against men from Nukunoni, tensions escalated between the two villages. In an attempt to resolve the situation, Vaipae-pae-o-Pau invited Nukunoni to a Ti feast, which unfortunately turned into a trap resulting in the tragic harm of Nukunoni's people. In retaliation, Nukunoni allied with neighboring villages to seek justice against Vaipae-pae-o-Pau. Realizing their slim chances of victory against the united forces, Vaipae-pae-o-Pau sought a peaceful resolution to prevent further bloodshed.

This artwork captures a poignant moment in Vaipae-pae-o-Pau’s history. It illustrates the villagers delicately preparing a paoa (tapa cloth), meticulously scenting it with aromatic plants laid over an umu (ground oven). The scented paoa was then adorned by a young woman from Vaipae-pae-o-Pau, who positioned herself upwind from Nukunoni's chief. This strategic act of allure aimed to captivate and charm the chief, a tactic that ultimately proved successful in re-establishing peace between the once-warring villages.

Museum-quality poster made on thick and long-lasting matte (uncoated) paper.

- Paper weight: 200 gsm / 80 lb

- Shipped in sturdy packaging protecting the poster