Final answer:
The tapa mats and bark cloth presented to Queen Elizabeth II in Fiji serve as ceremonial gifts and are used in ritualistic exchanges to show respect and honor towards a visiting dignitary.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tapa mats and bark cloth presented to Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to Fiji serve a significant cultural purpose. These traditional Fijian textiles have deep roots in the customs and artistic expressions of the Pacific Islands. Historically, objects such as tapa cloth or mats are known to be used in various ceremonial contexts within the Pacific cultures, including as ceremonial gifts and as items in ritualistic exchanges.
The presentation of such items to a visiting dignitary, such as Queen Elizabeth II, would likely be in keeping with these traditional uses. These textiles can be seen as an embodiment of respect and honor towards the guest and reflect the significance of the occasion. Therefore, they were probably intended to commemorate the special event of the Queen's visit, paying tribute to her status and to establish a cultural exchange.