‘Ahu ‘ula (feather cape)

‘Ahu ‘ula (feather cape). Hawaiian. Late 18th century C.E. Feathers and olona fiber.

• The Hawaiian male nobility wore feather cloaks and capes for ceremonies and battle.
• Such cloaks and capes were called 'ahu'ula, or "red garments." Across Polynesia the color red was associated with both gods and chiefs. In the Hawaiian Islands, however, yellow feathers became equally valuable, due to their scarcity.
• Tiny bundles of feathers were attached to the netting in overlapping rows.
• This small cape has a shaped neckline which would closely fit the wearer.
• Large numbers of feathered cloaks and capes were given as gifts to the sea captains and their crews who were the earliest European visitors to Hawaii; passed onto patrons/leaders who financed their voyages. 
• It is not known who brought this particular cape to England.