Mat

Item number Z 35110 from the MAA: University of Cambridge.

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Description

Large rectangular cedar bark mat with longitudinal bands of red and yellow cedar bark. A central band of red and dyed black cedar bark runs down the length, and is crossed two similar bands creating a wide grid-like effect. The edges are also decorated with similar bands.; Good

Context

The original European tribal names and, where possible, current tribal names have both been given in separate GLT fields.; Cedar bark matting was utilised in many ways, as matting, bedding, lining walls to exclude draughts, to cover cargo in canoes, and was sold throughout the region. The cedar bark was gathered during the early summer. A tall tree without too many branches was selected and a line of cuts across the bark was made, to a width of about 40.0. The edge of the bark was pulled upwards, and then tugged otwards causing a strip of bark to come away from the tree for a considerable distance up the trunk.These large pieces of bark had the outer, drier bark removed, as the inner bark is the best. The lengths were further split into 10.0 wide strips which were coiled and stored until need. CUMAA artefacts 1926.569 A B are examples of the bundles and split bark ready for weaving. When needed the bark would be soaked in water and split into thinner strands both in thickness and width. Cedar bark would then be woven into baskets or other similar items (G.Crowther).