Polynesia is a region of many islands in the Pacific Ocean. These are New Zealand, Tahiti, Samoa, Hawaii and many others.
Historically, it is believed that the art of tattooing originated in Polynesia, since even the word “tattoo” itself was borrowed from the Tahitian dialect - in the Polynesian language, “tatau” means design.
Every image, every detail was very important and carried a lot of information - from occupation to social status. Only the priests of the tribe applied the tattoo and, sometimes, the process itself took several days.
They crossed the sea in canoes. The shortcomings of primitive vessels were compensated by the courage and dexterity of the Maori. Many Indian tattoos are associated with sailing traditions. Let's find out what they and other tribal symbols are talking about. .
Meaning of Maori tattoo
Most of the symbols and details of the Polynesian ornament are marine inhabitants, which in itself is not surprising, because people who live on islands in the ocean inextricably connect themselves and their lives with water. Also used in Polynesian tattoos are images of the sun, moon and amulets - Tiki masks.
All main plots are necessarily complemented by secondary, but no less important details of the ornament - spirals, waves, circles and other geometric elements. Let's try to understand the meaning of the main details of the Polynesian ornament.
Maori tattoo meaning - turtle
One of the most popular subjects in modern Polynesian tattoos. Different versions of the image of a turtle shell can carry different meanings. The turtle is a balanced character, perseverance, calmness and wisdom. Many Polynesian peoples believe that a turtle design on the body can protect the owner of the tattoo and give him a long life.
Maori tattoo meaning - shark
The image of a shark among the Polynesians had several meanings. The shark signified the strength and wisdom of the hunter, served as a talisman against enemies and protected fishermen from attacks by sea predators. Often, triangles in the geometric part of the ornament symbolized shark teeth
Meaning of Maori tattoo - stingray
The stingray tattoo in Polynesia has very strong protective properties. Skat is freedom, calm, thoughtfulness of actions and hidden strength, which is used only in moments of danger.
Meaning of Maori tattoo - sun
The celestial bodies helped the Indians navigate the sea. The main ones are the classic Maori tattoos. Sketches with the Moon are the path of hunters and fans of their craft. The month is a sign of perseverance in achieving goals. The radiance of the night luminary is recognized to illuminate the path to them.
For the Polynesians, the moon was very important. Hunters and fishermen used the moon and stars to navigate, and priests predicted weather phenomena. The image of the moon or moon was a symbol of strong character, leadership and good luck. Hunters also drew a picture of the month on themselves so that they would be successful.
Meaning of Maori tattoo - lizard
The lizard patronizes strength, agility and speed. Therefore, in tribes, lizard tattoos were applied to warriors. In Polynesian designs, the lizard is often found together with the turtle or the sun, which give its power additional wisdom and good fortune.
The Polynesian tattoo is deeply symbolic and seems a little rough. In the article we will talk about the meaning and features of the images, and also provide an original selection of photos with sketches.
The first body designs appeared on the Pacific islands. For the Indians, they were like memoirs: they talked about their status in society, exploits, physical and spiritual development. It was believed that the image connected a person with the gods and significantly influenced his fate. The Polynesian tattoo was tattooed exclusively by priests over several months. Procedure accompanied by special rituals and songs to support the man. The priest attached a stencil with an image to the body, used a hammer and a sharpened tooth to cut out the elements and covered them with dye. The pigment was made from the resin of coniferous trees. The blood was constantly wiped away - not a single drop should fall on the ground. After the procedure, the juice of tropical plants was rubbed into the skin to make it pale, creating a contrast of black lines and a white body. Men were expelled from society if the drawing was not completed.
The nobility had more body designs than people of low status. Men most often got Polynesian tattoos on their faces (especially leaders), in the area from the waist to the knees. Large spirals were applied to the buttocks (closed meant infinity and perfection, unfolded meant renewal and restoration). The patterns on the chest and wrist determined a person’s position in society. An ornament on the forehead meant success in battle, on the cheeks - profession, on the chin - origin. Women had fewer designs; they were mostly applied to the lips and chin.
Sketches of Polynesian tattoos were brought to the West by an assistant of James Cook at the end of the 18th century. The navigator introduced the word “tattoo” into the English language, which, translated from the tribal dialect, meant either “beating” or “drawing”.
Features of Polynesian tattoos
A tattoo in the Polynesian style looks rough and massive, hidden aggressiveness is visible. A drawing or pattern consists of thin, wide and short lines, zigzags and waves that form geometric shapes. There is no play of color palette and shadows, abstraction and blurred contours. The pictures are symmetrical and clear, made with black pigment, although now you can add a little color or complement the image with bright colors. This tattoo looks gentle and feminine and is common among girls.
Each element has a deep meaning and carries a great energy charge that can change the fate of the owner. Lines in the form of fish scales protect him from warning danger and enemies. The bonito or tuna element signifies energy, resourcefulness and skill, and can be part of a pattern or animal. It is depicted in the form of teeth arranged in two rows so that white diamonds appear in the middle. Shark teeth (several black triangles connected by one line) - protection in the water, fearlessness, strength, the ability to adapt in any situation. The legend says that while swimming, one girl was bitten by a shark. In response, she was not confused, but shouted her name. The predator apologized and swam away. The marks left by the teeth are a mark that the girl is her friend. Since then, shark teeth (niho mano) have been applied to the ankle.
The Polynesian design is quite complex, so many people go to Tahiti, Easter Island, Samoa or Haiti to have it applied by a qualified artist. However, after the Spanish conquerors, many sources were destroyed and the meaning of some symbols is unknown. You also need to take into account that Polynesian tattoos are divided into several subtypes; each island has its own motives and methods of application. In Hawaii, ornaments, images of skulls, wreaths and flowers predominate; on the island of Samoa, tattoos are applied the old-fashioned way: not with a needle, but with a pig’s or shark’s tooth.
A tattoo in the Polynesian style must be carefully selected in terms of meaning, volume and location. Lines and small figures can get lost in the curves of the body, the drawing will turn out to be cropped, so it is necessary to take into account the relief of muscles and muscles.
Legends and meaning of symbols
Each image has deep symbolism, imbued with legends and beliefs.
It is believed that the Polynesian-style sun tattoo appeared on the body of the Indians first. It illuminates the path of life, and after death it does not allow one to go into darkness. The drawing denotes life and immensity, good luck in your endeavors, and brings positivity and happiness. The rising luminary is a symbol of new life and wisdom, the awakening of energy, and the sunset is the rebirth of all living things.
The Polynesian moon is often used in images of women. She personifies femininity, spiritual strength and greatness, dedication to the chosen cause. Drawing is often found among businessmen, as it helps to achieve their goals. If he is depicted with a dolphin, he will be interpreted as a wise leader. The moon is always depicted as the abiding month and protects hunters. Together with the sun, it gives a chance to make impossible plans possible, supports ambitious and purposeful people.
The Polynesian turtle tattoo is also revered among beautiful ladies. She represents family, fertility and longevity. Helps to find harmony of spirit with body, is a talisman of the hearth and protection from misfortunes. The turtle and the sunrise signify hard work. Polynesian warriors used her shell as a shield, so the design has another meaning: strength of body and spirit, stamina and poise. According to legend, the turtle carries souls to the kingdom of the dead, therefore, after death, the Polynesians applied to the body the sign of a person walking nearby or sitting on the shell.
The image of a shark means perseverance and power, protection from enemies and troubles. Among the Polynesian people, she was a sacred animal; they worshiped her power and strength. A picture of a fish in the form of a triangle means resistance to troubles; if depicted under a luminary, it means imperishable strength and power; together with a dolphin, it means strong and true friendship.
The body design of a lizard is a connection with the gods and access to other worlds. According to legend, the gods come to humans exclusively in the form of a gecko, so the image personifies the supernatural power that passes to the owner. For warriors, tattoos meant physical strength, hardness, endurance and speed. If a lizard was stuffed with a turtle, it means that the person is responsible for his words and actions.
Warriors and hunters wore the Tiki deity mask to protect themselves from evil spirits and death. The image suits temperamental and courageous men. The picture can be supplemented with various elements: shark teeth, tuna, birds, waves, people.
The Polynesian stingray tattoo signifies elegance, spiritual beauty, grace and freedom, and is a powerful protection. Often this image includes hooks symbolizing good luck, tiki masks - protection from all evil, a hibiscus flower - beauty, a cross - harmony and balance, and shark teeth. Each drawing can be supplemented with other details. The stingray was revered by the Polynesians, as it was considered one of the most dangerous inhabitants of the oceans, and therefore can mean dexterity and cunning. This Polynesian tattoo can be done on the shoulder or back, or on the ankle and foot; it looks good on the lower back of girls.
Polynesian tattoos for men - physical and spiritual strength
The body pattern gives masculinity and brutality if applied to the back or forearm, covering part of the chest. A full length sleeve or from shoulder to elbow, from elbow to neck looks good.
Often men apply similar work on the leg to the knees, on the calves, on the side of the lower leg or from the foot to the thigh. The composition may consist of several patterns or a thin strip of ornament going down along the stomach or back.
Women's Polynesian tattoos - mystery and grace
The pictures look too massive for the female body, but you can choose beautiful images to make them seem light and delicate, not overloaded with wide lines. Polynesian-style tattoos are applied to the leg, arm and shoulder, but they look more feminine and luxurious on the shoulder blade, back, and lower back. Pictures of lizards or stingrays look more elegant when the tail is depicted as a flexible or twisted ring. The composition can be supplemented with flowers or ferns (calmness and peace), butterflies and dragonflies (spiritual transformation), birds (freedom and control over the situation from above).
Polynesian tattoos do not combine well with bright and voluminous images of other styles. You should not fill the drawings too small: each picture consists of a large number of different details, they can visually merge into a black and white spot. The beauty and grandeur of the body painting will be lost.
Photo of tattoo in Polynesia
On the shoulder
Sleeve
Sun
Turtle
Shark
On the foot
On the chest
Bull
Bear
Moon
On the back
On the forearm
The art of tattooing has always been not only aesthetic in nature, but also has a symbolic meaning. Thus, tattoos were made in order to determine one’s status, stand out, and even find a connection with nature.
Grade
The Polynesian style gained popularity not so long ago among the European public. Polynesian ones attract attention with their intricate patterns and patterns. But Polynesian tattoos are not about ornaments and interesting designs, they are about something more.
Polynesian are symbolic signs that can become a kind of business card for their bearer. They have strong qualities and can symbolize parting words, a motto, give protection or reflect your aspirations in life.
The interesting thing is that the symbols in Polynesian tattoos are limited, but can have different variations. And, of course, each has its own meaning. Let's figure out which one.
Sharks
Polynesian sharks (like any other) symbolize resilience, strength and perseverance. usually applied to the chest or legs (legs and thighs). Such a symbol must protect its wearer from enemies and other threats. They were usually applied by fishermen as protection from sea predators.
Masks (tics)
These frightening facial features were usually worn by male warriors or hunters. This protects against evil spirits and helps in difficult times. There are a lot of patterns with masks and you can choose a pretty cute one.
Sun
In any culture, the sun symbolizes light and life, eternity. In Polynesian culture, a tattoo with the sun should be the first in a person’s life as it is a talisman for life. It should light the way and help in life.
Turtle
The Polynesian tortoise is calm and wise, it gives strength to the spirit and body, symbolizes a persistent character. Also, the turtle symbolizes longevity, so it is necessary on the chest.
Moon
The Polynesians fully studied and considered it a symbol of strong character and the greatness of the human spirit. And such a tattoo can characterize a person as a calm and reasonable leader, giving its wearer good luck and perseverance.
Lizard
The Polynesian lizard looks very interesting, and sometimes it can look simply perfect. Lizard carriers were strong warriors who wore a symbol of stamina and development of the body. A
Polynesian turtle tattoos became common among Europeans no more than a few decades ago. For the first time, such a tattoo appeared among Pacific tribes; it could be used to determine a person’s status, his origin, or even his occupation. Only priests could apply a design on the body of a fellow tribesman, and the process itself was a real sacrament.
History of the symbol
The Polynesian archipelago includes about 1,000 different islands, but the most famous and mysterious is the culture of the Maori tribe. Representatives of this tribe communicated with the gods through tattoos, which they applied to their bodies using improvised means - animal teeth or incisors. The Maori greatly respected turtles for their longevity and strong shell, which is why they often got tattoos of this animal as a sign of their respect. First of all, the turtle was a symbol of wisdom, so such a tattoo could only be found among mature, wealthy and respected members of the tribe.
The meaning of the Polynesian turtle tattoo
Over time, the meaning of a tattoo in the form of a Polynesian turtle began to acquire more and more different variations, as the inhabitants of the tribe followed the life of these animals and noticed some of their features.
The main meanings of the tattoo are:
- Wisdom and prudence;
- Calm, slow, thoughtful;
- Patience;
- A symbol of a balanced person who carefully thinks through his every step;
- Stealth (due to a strong shell);
- Longevity or even eternity;
- Fertility and fertility;
- Hard work (when it is assumed that the picture shows a turtle at dawn).
Often, Polynesian tattoos with a turtle were a strong amulet against evil spirits and troubles in life. This meaning of the tattoo is associated with the fact that the animal has a strong shell that will always protect it from enemies.
Places of application
The priests of the Maori tribe were well versed in human anatomy and always carefully thought out where to get a tattoo. The location of the design had to correspond to certain energy meridians of the human body in order to positively influence the owner of the tattoo.
The most common placement options for a turtle tattoo are on the arm, chest, or back. Mostly, the sketch is combined with other tattoos and forms a complete picture - a “sleeve” or even a larger tattoo covering half the size of the body. Less common is placement on the foot. The location of the tattoo does not affect its meaning.
Color spectrum
Polynesian tattoos are traditionally tattooed exclusively in black, since this color scheme allows you to get as close as possible to the spirits and reveal your energy (according to the Polynesians). No other shade options available.
Polynesian tortoise for guys and girls
The Maori tribe had a clear division of tattoos into male and female. The turtle belongs to men's tattoos; therefore, it does not appear on women. In modern culture, some girls still wear this symbol, although from the point of view of the symbolism of the sign, this is not entirely true.
Tattoo style
The only style for the Polynesian tortoise is the technique of the same name - Polynesia. Its peculiarity lies in the combination of ornate lines, labyrinths, and spirals, which form a single pattern. As a result, the tattoo somewhat resembles an image that was burned into wood. Every stroke of the drawing is crucial, so the choice of sketch should be approached responsibly - either turn to the indigenous inhabitants of Polynesia, or use ancient historical books.
Additional sketch elements
Most often, the tattoo is combined with a geometric pattern, forming a complete “sleeve”. Less commonly, you can find a combination of a Polynesian turtle with tiki masks, sharks, stingrays, dolphins, whales, and some other animals.
Hidden meaning of tattoo
Residents of the Maori tribe believed that tattoos not only allow you to get closer to the gods, but also significantly influence a person’s life and his destiny. Turtles were usually stuffed with men who wanted to stop participating in wars or hunting work, start a family and live in peace. Often such a tattoo was applied to mature people of advanced age as a sign of their settling down and wisdom, the transition from an active life to a quiet old age. In the modern world, tattoos in the form of a Polynesian turtle are tattooed regardless of age, since the meaning of the design can be varied. First of all, this is still a powerful amulet that will especially help people with dangerous work - police officers, military men, firefighters, etc., because Maori tattoos protect only those who really need it and give goodness to people in return.
So-called Polynesian tattoos have recently gained enormous popularity.
Polynesia is a group of islands in the Pacific Ocean, the most popular of which are Easter Island and Hawaii.
It is on the islands of Polynesia that tattooing is considered a special form of art; according to local residents, only tattooing can enable a person to establish contact with the divine. The Polynesian tattoo style represents ornaments characteristic of the culture of local tribes and small peoples; in appearance they resemble a regular and clear carved pattern.
The design consists of lines that have strict geometry; they are often used to symbolize celestial bodies, animals, plants; the meaning of such tattoos is sometimes difficult for an unprepared person to read due to the special intricacy of patterns and lines.
Male drawing
Real Polynesian tattoos have always been considered the privilege of the male sex and were applied with a shark or pig tooth, which sometimes caused unbearable pain in the process. A tattoo of this kind is intended to become a document of its owner, because it can tell a lot about his life, history, qualities, fate and aspirations.
The shark, for example, a sacred animal in these parts, designed to protect its owner, is a symbol of power and fortitude. Polynesian masks, tiki - destiny, such drawings must be protected from visible and invisible enemies. The graceful and light animal stingray applied to the body has the same meaning.
A patterned unfolded spiral gives a person hope and symbolizes new life.
The turtle is chosen as a tattoo by peace-loving and family people; this leisurely animal is a talisman of traditions and a symbol of longevity and may well be suitable for both girls and women, but the moon is more likely a symbol of femininity, promising abundance.
The sun is a sign of eternal life. The combination of two heavenly bodies in one drawing is a symbol of overcoming obstacles and the implementation of ideas that seem impossible at first glance. If you see a Polynesian on a person’s body, know that this animal, respected in Polynesian lands, is endowed with supernatural powers and has a magical origin.
Drawings in the form of sea creatures such as dolphins mean friendship and connect a person with earthly principles.
