The classic symbol in Polynesian Tattoos which often appears as a row of spearheads, representing warrior and masculine power. The motif embodies a Marquesan hero which represents strength, courage and tenacity. This symbol appears in tattoos representing human figures, men and women and god, beings with powers and qualities of the same kind as living men. Below are some of the examples and their meanings. Each of them acquires a meaning related to its inner nature and embodies that meaning to the bearer of the tattoo. A large number of symbols are used as the motifs in the tattoo designs. Polynesian body art is highly associated with their living surroundings. Polynesian Tattoo Symbols and their meanings In Polynesian tattoos designs, calf, the front of lower leg and the full lower leg are the popular placements for leg tattoos. For young women, it used to be the sole outfit for daughter of the chief. This placement is particularly related to strength and marriage. In Samoan culture, it was an important rite of passage for young Samoan women to get tattoo from the upper thighs to the knees. The thigh tattoos are of great sentimental value for women. Shoulders and arms are the best places for the masculine designs that represent strength and bravery. Many people are amazed by the tribal tattoos on this body part. The belly or stomach, is associated to Mana, a supernatural power in Polynesian peoples may exist in person or inanimate objects. The area is from the navel onto the chest, a place between Rangi and Papa, the earth goddess who gave birth to all things by making love to the sky. That’s why copying a facial tattoo is considered greatly offensive. Each moko contains ancestral tribal messages specific to the wearer. One of typical head tattoos is Maori facial tattoo or ta moko. A tattoo on this placement reminds people of spirituality, knowledge and wisdom. In Maori and other Polynesian mythology, Rangi was a god of the sky, husband of the earth goddess Papa. The head connects to Rangi which means sky. Besides the motifs or symbols, the placement plays role in expressing their meanings. Similar to Maori tattoos, Marquesan tattoos are rich in spiral or rounded elements and share a more figurative style.ĭespite the distance of the islands, traditional Polynesian tattoos display proximal visual art effect, which embody the spiritual power, lineage or deeds for the wearers. Marquesan tattoo – aka patutiki, a traditional tattoo design originating from Marquesas Islands.In ancient Tahitian culture, there were strict codes governing the use of tattooing for it represented one’s e social standing. The origin of the English word ‘tattoo’ actually came from the Tahitian word ‘tatau’. Tahitian tattoos – an indigenous tattoo style to Tahiti, the largest island in French Polynesia.It is a way to tell stories about their owners, reflecting social rank, power and status. Maori tattoos feature intricate spiral or round patterns and symbols with unique meanings. Maori tattoo – aka Ta Moko, is a form of facial tattoo art practiced by Maori people in New Zealand. Hawaiian tattoo – the ancient tattoo art also known as Kakau, is sacred to the Hawaiian people, mainly used to represent one’s social status.The Samoan tattoo for women is called malu that covers the legs from the upper thighs to the knees. The Samoan tattoo for men is called pe’a, which consists of intricate geometrical patterns covering areas from waist to knees. Samoan tattoo – a tattoo style indigenous to Samoa island.However, the style of tattooing varies from island to island, which are usually named after the names of islands or people. Polynesian Tattoo Stylesĭespite many languages, the people who inhabit in different Polynesian islands share many similar traits in culture and beliefs. At the center is Tahiti (5), with Samoa (4) to the west. The Polynesian Triangle is a geographical region of the Pacific Ocean with Hawaii (1), New Zealand (2) and Easter Island (3) at its corners.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |