Les Lavalava — Objets De Valeur Féminins Aux Îles Rei Metau
Petrosian-Husa, Carmen (2001-06-01). "Les Lavalava — Objets De Valeur Féminins Aux Îles Rei Metau". Journal De La Société Des Océanistes. 112 (112): 21–36. doi:10.4000/jso.1666. ISSN 1760-7256.
- Has attachment: File:VBK7P9ZA.pdf
Abstract: The article “Les Lavalava — Objets De Valeur Féminins Aux Îles Rei Metau” by Carmen Petrosian-Husa explores the cultural and social significance of lavalava, traditional garments, within the Rei Metau islands. Lavalava, particularly those made from hibiscus fibers, were once considered highly valuable and known as dörri tamol, or “chief of lavalava” [10]. Despite the intrusion of modern currency such as the US dollar, lavalava retains its cultural importance, especially in ceremonial contexts where currency cannot replace traditional garments.
The article delves into various aspects of the Rei Metau’s societal structures, emphasizing the matrilineal and matrilocal nature of their communities, where properties and homes are inherited through the female line, granting significant social power to women [13]. Women participate actively in community decision-making, exemplified through their prominent roles in the töji meetings where they can influence social policies, such as the ban on alcohol.
Cultural celebrations highlighted in the article include a traditional three-day festivity surrounding a young woman’s first menstruation, illustrating gender roles and societal values in the islands. These events involve communal feasting and dances with strong sexual connotations, though the teureng, or the young woman being honored, does not partake in the festivities.
The article also examines the complexities of social and economic interactions, drawing on the concept of “primitive currency” discussed by Polanyi, where items hold significant non-monetary value in specific contexts. Overall, the work provides a comprehensive view of how traditional practices and modern influences coexist and shape the culture of the Rei Metau ("Re Matahu" or "Outer Islands of Yap") islands.
Extra details:
MAG: 1988011599 OpenAlex: W1988011599 CorpusID: 191587353
