Si'i: Difference between revisions
Created page with "Si'i <ref>[http://www.chamoru.info/dictionary/display.php?action=view&id=9894 si'i - chamoru.info Dictionary]</ref> is a Chamorro tool used in all aspects of åkgak plaiting. In modern times it is generally a flat piece of metal of uniform thickness around 1/8" thick and triangular in shape. It is of varying size and shape, made of sheet metal or bar stock. From harvesting of åkgak, it's processing to produce usable material, the material's preparation for weavin..." |
mNo edit summary |
||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
Si'i <ref>[http://www.chamoru.info/dictionary/display.php?action=view&id=9894 si'i - chamoru.info Dictionary]</ref> is a Chamorro tool used in all aspects of [[åkgak]] plaiting. In modern times it is generally a flat piece of metal of uniform thickness around 1/8" thick and triangular in shape. It is of varying size and shape, made of sheet metal or bar stock. From harvesting of åkgak, | Si'i <ref>[http://www.chamoru.info/dictionary/display.php?action=view&id=9894 si'i - chamoru.info Dictionary]</ref> is a Chamorro tool used in all aspects of [[åkgak]] plaiting. In modern times it is generally a flat piece of metal of uniform thickness around 1/8" thick and triangular in shape. It is of varying size and shape, made of sheet metal or bar stock. From harvesting of åkgak, its processing to produce usable material, the material's preparation for weaving, during weaving, and even during repair work, the si'i is an invaluable tool to the weaver, acting as an extension of their body. | ||
== Uses == | == Uses == | ||
Latest revision as of 19:48, 28 March 2026
Si'i [1] is a Chamorro tool used in all aspects of åkgak plaiting. In modern times it is generally a flat piece of metal of uniform thickness around 1/8" thick and triangular in shape. It is of varying size and shape, made of sheet metal or bar stock. From harvesting of åkgak, its processing to produce usable material, the material's preparation for weaving, during weaving, and even during repair work, the si'i is an invaluable tool to the weaver, acting as an extension of their body.
Uses
The si'i has three principal edges, two smooth, rounded edges on the long edge, and usually but not always, a sharpened base that is used for cutting. The two smooth edges are used for softening and straightening leaves and strips. The tip end, opposite of the cutting edge base, is used for piercing the åkgak to split leaves, remove marginal & midrib thorns, as well as an implement to expand weave for inserting new strips while weaving or during repair. Some si'i have a hole drilled just above the cutting edge that could be used to hang the si'i on a wall. A common misconception is that the si'i has "sharp edges". The base may be sharpened with a beveled knife edge, but the remaining edges, and beveling of the tapered tip should be smooth to the touch, as to not damage the åkgak.
History
Although the si'i is attested in chronicles of visitors to the islands stating that it was made from seashell, in modern times it is made of metal, and no objects in collections resemble descriptions of this shell tool. The last trained blacksmith in the Marianas able to make functional si'i passed away March 20, 2015.
Cultural significance
The si'i is an invaluable tool to weavers, particularly åkgak weavers. Its production is limited to special request by tool makers, and generally made by folks whom don't specialize in making si'i.
Gallery
-
Si'i made by Jessie C. Bamba -
Si'i made by Dif. Joaquin "Jack" Lujan, Smithsonian collection (E428725) -
Si'i made by Dif. Joaquin "Jack" Lujan, c. 1990s
