Nowadays, Polynesian tattoos are very popular along with many other types. And now it won’t be too difficult to make one for yourself: you just need to choose a sketch and a good craftsman.
Story
The origin of such intricate patterns is quite interesting. Tattoos are called Polynesian because they originally appeared in Polynesia among the Maori tribe. The process of applying the pattern was considered sacred, so only priests had the right to fill them. And, as you might already guess, tattoos were not made for beauty either, each of them had a special sacred meaning and, according to people, was a kind of divine channel. The drawings could be on a specific part of the body (lower leg, chest, thigh, face, arms, etc.) or on several at the same time.
They also played a large role in the tribal society of that time. From tattoos one could determine about a person: character, tribe, occupation, origin and much more. However, it is worth noting the fact that only men could do it for themselves, but in no case women.
What it is?
Not to be confused with anything. Each of them consists of small patterns, geometric shapes, spirals, bends, lines and other details, which all together ultimately form an overall whole picture. For example, a turtle, a wave and much more. When choosing, you should know the meaning of a Polynesian tattoo. We will look at this in more detail below using specific examples.
Shark
The image of a shark denotes perseverance, fortitude, perseverance, because it is a strong and dangerous predator. Such a tattoo could be applied, for example, to fishermen so that it would protect them from other animals. Often this design was applied to the legs or chest.
TIKS
Tattoos in the Polynesian style in the form of masks are very interesting. They are also called TIKI. In ancient times, only hunters and tribal warriors could wear such images of masks. Why? Because it was these people who were exposed to greater danger due to their activities, and TIKI could protect them in difficult times, protect them from attacks by animals and people and, most importantly, from evil spirits. Such Polynesian masks have eyes, when looking into which all “evil spirits” are afraid. Typically, Polynesians had multiple TIKI mask tattoos on different parts of their bodies to ward off evil from all sides.
Turtle
You can often find such an image. The turtle is a symbol of protection, since its durable shell will never allow anything bad to break through: negative energy, misfortunes, bad thoughts and emotions. It is also a very strong amulet, as the Polynesian tribes believed.
Sun
It is a symbol of energy, life, light. Such a tattoo seems to illuminate the path of a person’s life. The sun is depicted in different ways, which also affects the meaning. For example, sunrise means an influx of energy, awakening, and sunset means rebirth.
Moon
In contrast to the Sun, there is another equally important symbol. The Moon (as well as the Month) in general denotes everything related to fortitude, and also serves as a kind of figurative source of light and protection for hunters.
Scat
In nature, the stingray is generally harmless, but at the same time poisonous. These cute creatures are perceived by Polynesians as a symbol of calm, regularity, grace and beauty, which can, however, hurt if encroached upon.
Lizard
As you can see, the Polynesians, with images and patterns on the body, sought to adopt all the best features and qualities personified by these objects or creatures. The same thing happened, for example, with the drawing of a lizard. They come in different types, but they are all distinguished by speed, resourcefulness, and courage. As a rule, such tattoos were worn by warriors so that they would help them in difficult times. If a lizard was depicted with a turtle, this meant that the bearer of the tattoo was a man of his word.
Spiral
But a kind of spiral was considered a sign of hope and the beginning of a new (better) life. Another name is Koru. Spirals can be closed or open. In the first case, this means infinity, constancy, self-development, and in the second - renewal and restoration.
Meaning of symbols
Above we looked at the main options for images and drawings, which are made up of patterns and details. However, in addition to them, there are also smaller, but no less important symbols of the Polynesian tattoo, each of which also has its own meaning. As a rule, large drawings are also created from them.
These symbols are interesting not only from the point of view of the history of tattooing, but also for studying the culture and mentality of the tribes of Oceania as a whole. For example, the famous traveler and ethnographer Carl von den Steinen at the end of the 19th century (1897-98) made a lot of useful notes regarding the life of Polynesian tribes. He passed them on to other scientists and universities. In his notes, he also touched on the symbols to which the Polynesians attached great importance.
Let's take a closer look at the meanings of these pictures.
Enata
A person (otherwise known as “enata”) is a fairly simple symbol. As a rule, it occurs as part of complex drawings and denotes close people. If enata is reversed, it symbolizes defeated enemies.
Also, many Polynesian peoples depicted a circle of these little people, translated as “cloudy sky,” which symbolizes the sky, as well as all ancestors who, according to legend, can patronize the living.
But the likeness of two figures united together usually depicts a marriage, a wedding, a couple.
Enata symbols are very easy to confuse with other images of warriors in the form of the same human figures. But there is a significant difference between them - the presence of a spear. And the meaning of such drawings is already different.
It is worth noting that it is not always possible to recognize the symbols of men in a Polynesian tattoo. Some variations are so simplified that they represent a kind of geometric image that only slightly resembles a person.
Items
Small simplified images of objects could also make up a whole picture. So, for example, to designate a human warrior, spears, tips, sharp objects (fangs, stings) and other battle weapons could be drawn on it. They were also often made into a long chain or circle.
Another indispensable item in the life of the Polynesians, which was both a weapon for battles and used to build houses/canoes, was the hoe. It symbolized skill, strength, respect.
But by the design of the club it was possible to identify the leader of the tribe, since only they used it in battles. This item denotes leadership, nobility, honor, respect, honor. In general, all the qualities of an ideal leader.
Animals
Among other simple symbols, the inhabitants of the islands in Oceania often tattooed them on the bodies of animals. For example, centipedes were often depicted. They are, like stingrays: generally harmless, but poisonous, therefore dangerous and symbolize courage, the spirit of struggle.
Lizards (geckos, mokos), which often appear in the ancient myths of many peoples, also have a special sacred meaning. Polynesian tribes believe that these animals bring good luck and protection, protection from evil spirits. In some cases, the image of a moko signified divine origin.
Another important animal in Polynesian tattoos is the turtle (“honu”). Represents family, fertility, longevity, peacefulness, ocean, freedom. The whale symbol also has a similar meaning.
Fish was important to the islanders as it was the main source of food. And that is why the image with a fish meant abundance, prosperity, life. But the pattern in the form of scales, it was believed, could be protection for humans.
Often, island residents tattooed themselves with sharks, or rather, with their sharp triangular teeth. This symbol means strength and courage. It is believed that the pattern can protect in water. In addition, there is also a hammerhead shark symbol, which also symbolizes sociality and friendship.
How to get a Polynesian tattoo these days?
If earlier not every person, but only men of some tribes in Oceania, could afford such tattoos, now everything has become much simpler and more accessible. If you have gone through the directory of Polynesian tattoos and have firmly decided to make yourself the desired design, then now you need to find a master in a tattoo parlor. In such places, as a rule, many of the tattooists know how to do such things. They draw a sketch or immediately type in the chosen image. You can get yourself a neat Polynesian tattoo on your arm or fill your entire body; the scope for realizing your fantasies is quite wide.
However, many believe that such patterned designs should be made in Polynesia. And indeed, only there you can feel the entire sacredness of such an action. Often, drawings are made there in the same way as the distant ancestors of the Polynesians did, using the fang of an animal (for example, a shark or a wild boar). It is worth noting that this is a painful, but at the same time more impressive process.
One of the categories of tattoos that are especially popular these days are Polynesian tattoos. Such drawings are bright and visible from afar. But the distinctive feature of these images is not only the brightness and originality of the design, but also the deep meaning. Polynesian tattoos will make you feel the strength and power of a native Polynesian. Despite the popularity of this type of tattoo, the style of drawing remains new for many people.
Polynesian sleeve style
Origin of Polynesian style tattoos
The Polynesian Islands consist of a group of islands that are found in the Pacific Ocean. The most famous among them are Tahiti, Cook Island, Hawaii, Easter Island. Every person associates these islands with exoticism. It was here, on these fertile lands, that not only the original method of painting, but also the very concept of tattooing arose. This word comes from “ta” - picture and “atu” - spirit.
There is a legend that the Polynesian god Tiki taught the inhabitants to apply drawings on their bodies.
For the Polynesians, body paintings were not an easy way to decorate themselves. Tattoos demonstrated a person's occupation, his status among other inhabitants of the island, as well as individual characteristics and qualities. On the islands, the number of tattoos corresponded to the place a person occupied in society. Modern tattoos do not demonstrate social status, but convey the atmosphere of Polynesia and the character of the people.
Shoulder of a man in Polynesian patterns
Originality of the drawing
Polynesian tattoo designs consist of complex patterns and intricate shapes. The lines of the drawing curl or are applied straight, thus forming a separate composition or image. These can be geometric shapes, elements, animals, cosmic bodies and others. Each element of such a picture has its own meaning.
Important!
Only priests had the right to apply drawings on the human body. Because this process was not simply a decoration of the body, but a mysterious rite that could be identified with an act of initiation.
Hand bracelet made in Polynesian style
Traditions of the Polynesians
Tattooing, like the image itself, was an important ritual in the Polynesian Islands. The artist who drew the tattoo was a priest, and for his work he necessarily received gifts and, what is more valuable, the respect of the entire society. Since the process of applying a tattoo was lengthy, those who wanted to receive a body design and deserved it lived for a long time in the priest’s house. The “clients” prayed constantly.
Only leaders and their close circle could have a large number of large-scale tattoos. For others, the drawings were much simpler. Women had their lips tattooed to protect them from aging.
I'm crazy about Polynesian tattoos. And I myself am the owner of one. This drawing looks elegant, non-trivial and always attracts the attention of others. In addition, such a tattoo acts as a kind of totem and gives self-confidence and strength.
Artem, St. Petersburg.
Polynesian style tattoos on the forearm
Polynesian tattoos: a variety of design options
The process of drawing a picture, like the image itself, has many options that have developed traditionally. The Moko technique differed from the well-known image piercing technique. To perform this, a chisel was used to produce cut wounds.
Polynesian style turtle tattoo on back
Such designs were preferred by the Maori tribe; other inhabitants of the Polynesian islands were more traditional. Maori are also known for their tattoo motifs: pu-kauwae (spiral designs on the chin), pae-pae (spiral designs on the cheeks) and others. Such drawings determined the status of the Polynesian.
Polynesian tattoo designs differ from other body designs in their clarity of lines and shapes. This tattoo is very reminiscent of wood carving, creating the effect of a three-dimensional image. The elements used in tattoos are quite diverse: from spirals and lines to images of representatives of the animal world. It was the richness of the flora and fauna of Polynesia that became the source for body designs in the form of fish, moon, stars, ferns and other symbols. Images and additional details are placed symmetrically on the body. This gives special uniqueness and charm to the body pattern.
Polynesian tattoo on leg
The meaning of tattoos
Polynesian tattoo photos are freely available both online and in tattoo parlor catalogs. These drawings can tell a lot about their owner. Their symbols are quite deep and emphasize the main character traits of a person. Often such a tattoo can illustrate a person’s life credo, parting words, a kind of totem and amulet.
Modern lovers of body painting, when choosing Polynesian tattoos, often miss their meaning and use the drawing as a decorative element of the image.
- The shark symbolizes omnipotence, power and strength, and determination. Because the shark is perceived as a sacred animal, possessing power and fearlessness. This design is designed to protect the owner.
- Tiki is a popular symbol representing Polynesian masks. Such drawings protect the owner from external threats, as well as from evil spirits. The eyes on the mask look in different directions, which symbolizes attention and protection.
- Turtle – life expectancy, fertility. This pattern is a symbol of family and protection.
- Moon– a female version of the Polynesian tattoo. Because the Moon has become a symbol of femininity, femininity and abundance.
- Sun, as in other tattoos, embodies eternity and life. The combination of two luminaries - the Moon and the Sun - emphasizes that the impossible is possible.
- Lizards, geckos are a symbol of supernatural power.
Polynesian style blackwork on the leg
Before getting a tattoo, every person thought about the appropriateness of the action. I'm not an exception. Therefore, having finally made a decision, I determined for myself a category of tattoos that optimally expressed my essence and admiration for the art of body painting. For those who are also undecided, I advise you to consider this category as an option.
Alina, Omsk
Video: the best Polynesian style tattoos
Sketches of Polynesian tattoos
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.
For centuries, people from all over the world have been decorating their bodies with tattoos. The word "tattoo" comes from the Polynesian language and means "drawing". In addition to the term, Polynesia gave the world a special style of body designs that cannot be confused with any others. Polynesian tattoo was formed from an ancient ritual art form that spread on the island of Tahiti, Hawaii and others.
History and significance
The custom of applying special designs to the body originated on the islands of Polynesia in ancient times. At first it was not a decoration, but a sacred act. Only the priest had the right to apply a Polynesian tattoo. He was the most respected member of his tribe.
There were several ways to apply a pattern to the skin. It all depended on which island the community was on. Therefore, despite the general similarity, there are several subgroups that are combined into Polynesian tattoos.
The meaning of the ritual in ancient times is associated with knowledge about the owner of the drawing. The tattoo was compiled from the main information:
- family;
- community;
- position in the community;
- main occupation;
- personal qualities;
- main actions in life.
Some images had to be earned by demonstrating strength, dexterity, and endurance in the hunt. Each fragment of the picture has its own name and carries a certain meaning. In general, a tattoo is similar to skillful wood carving. However, the tribes of the Polynesian islands were also famous for this.
Only men who had reached a certain age could apply an image to themselves. For women, such a ritual was prohibited. The procedure itself was painful, since the role of the needle was played by a shark or wild boar tooth. The paint was made from plant sap. The ritual of drawing a picture took several days. It was impossible to interrupt him, otherwise the family would face shame and expulsion from the tribe.
The emergence of Polynesian tattoos in Europe
Polynesian tattoos have always fascinated European sailors. But it was applied only to representatives of the tribe as a sacred design. For a long time, strangers could not get the desired patterns.
It is not known for certain how tattoos appeared among Europeans. There is a version that the sailors paid one of the leaders, and he provided them with a sample of Polynesian culture.
Places of application
Polynesian patterns (tattoos) were applied to the body of men in strictly defined areas. The place on the body where the tattoo was made depended on the social status of the man. Images could be found all over the body.
The following areas were covered with tattoos:
- head;
- wrist;
- breast;
- intimate parts of the body.
Masks
The Polynesian tattoo in the form of a mask was applied to warriors and hunters. It was believed that it could protect from evil spirits and protect in difficult times. Masks are also called tiki. There are many variations of them. They are applied over the body so that the eyes of the masks look in different directions. This will protect their owner from all sides. No matter how threatening the mask may be, it does not carry evil. Her task is to frighten the evil that is everywhere.
Lizard
The image of a lizard on the body looks very beautiful, even flawless. Most often these are iguanas and geckos. First of all, they mean physical strength, body power, stamina, speed, determination.
The presence of a lizard and a turtle on the body indicated that its bearer was true to his word and was always ready to prove what he said with deeds. This was the secret of his well-being.
Scat
The stingray tattoo in the culture of the Polynesian islands was a powerful symbol of protection. Many tribes glorified this animal, which they perceived as beautiful, wise and not showing aggression towards humans. At the same time, it is very poisonous.
The body pattern expresses calmness and deliberation, which borders on dangerous grace and (if necessary) poisonous beauty.
Turtle
A Polynesian turtle (tattoo) on a person’s body meant that its owner was calm and wise. It was applied to balanced and persistent members of the tribe who were strong in body and spirit. There are a large number of shell samples to depict this animal.
The image of a turtle against the backdrop of a sunny dawn meant that the person was hardworking and thrifty. In addition, the animal on the body became a real amulet, the main task of which was to prolong the life of the owner.
Moon
The tribes of Polynesia studied the phases of the luminary well. They knew very well how celestial bodies affect the weather. The Polynesians gave their names to many stars and their clusters. The moon signified strength of character and mental fortitude.
The month symbolized the owner’s commitment to his own business and meant assertiveness in achieving his goal. The image, consisting of the moon and a dolphin, meant that its bearer is a wise leader who is always accompanied by success. The moon could be depicted in all sorts of variations, each of which carried its own unique meaning.
Spiral
The spiral symbol traditionally signifies new life and hope. If the spiral (koru) was unfolded, it symbolized renewal, restoration and life. If it is closed, it is a sign of constancy, infinity, and improvement.
Sun
The Polynesian sun (tattoo), as elsewhere, symbolizes light, life and eternity. In ancient times, this image was one of the first to be painted. The sun was a talisman that accompanies life.
The sun can be depicted in two versions. The first is sunrise, which symbolizes the awakening of energy, the second is sunset, which is a sign of the rebirth of all living things.
Sharks
This animal traditionally symbolizes perseverance, perseverance, and strength. Shark was applied to the chest, legs and thighs. They made images of these predatory animals for fishermen from sea monsters. The men of the shark tribe were protected from enemies and other threats.
The drawing on the body in the form of a shark under the sun symbolized eternal strength and power, and the combination of a dolphin and a shark meant strong friendship.
In the modern world, Polynesian tattoos have already lost the meaning that was originally inherent in them. Their popularity is due to how impressive they look on the body. The patterns, which consist of many intricacies, small elements, waves, spirals, ribbons, amaze the imagination and attract tattoo lovers all over the world.
Polynesian tattoos are drawings or tattoo sketches that have their own history and are a separate style of the ancient people who lived on the coasts of the Pacific Ocean.
Polynesian style: history of origin
Tattooing in the Polynesian style is considered the oldest direction in the art of body designs. However, ethnic patterns began to gain popularity quite recently: around the first half of the 20th century. The main difference between Polynesian tattoos and modern ones is that only men had the right to get tattoos on their bodies.
In addition, they could only be applied if the person’s status allowed it. If a person had a desire to apply a Polynesian tattoo without certain merits, no one applied it. As a rule, people of high status had a large number of tattoos; ordinary people had very few designs on their bodies.
The process of applying a tattoo was considered a sacrament: it was a sacred rite. The ritual could only be carried out by the chief priest, and the drawing that was applied was a kind of “passport” of the man.
Based on the tattoo, one could easily determine what type of activity a person is engaged in, what tribe and social status he belongs to. In addition, it was easy to say what feats were accomplished and what this or that man became famous for.
It should also be noted that tattoos were placed on places where negative and positive energy flows coincided. Thanks to this, a tattoo could cover up the negativity that hindered a man, thereby improving his life.
Currently, the Polynesian tattoo style is becoming increasingly popular in tattoo parlors around the world. The truth is that the meaning that was previously in absolutely every drawing is no longer there. They began to be applied to the body more often due to their complexity and beauty. Each design has its own unique pattern, which consists of beautiful waves, spirals, zigzags and even geometric shapes.
In the modern world, Polynesian style tattoos are applied not only to the male body, but also to the female body. Therefore, you need to know what is best to depict on a girl’s body so that the tattoo does not look “heavy” or massive.
In order for a girl’s body to remain feminine, you should not draw wide lines, then they will give lightness. The most attractive tattoos for girls are lizards or stingrays, which can be complemented with flowers that impart calmness, butterflies or birds, symbolizing freedom.
Common Polynesian tattoos and their meanings
Hawaiian tattoos were performed in a distinctive style that came from the islanders. The main symbols of Hawaiian tattoos were fish, flowers, and animals. Drawings were applied for rituals of worship of gods on the bodies of both men and women. Such tattoos look quite harmonious, which is why they are popular to this day.
Tattoos of Indonesia, like Polynesia, were a “passport”. With the help of special ornaments it was possible to depict a person’s entire life: from the very beginning to the end.
Tattooing in Indonesia and Malaysia was considered a sacred rite, so only the chief priests had the right to get such tattoos. Each symbol that is drawn on the body is not depicted for the sake of a simple picture, but carries a deep meaning from various legends and beliefs. And in order to know what meaning is hidden in each tattoo, the most common tattoos in Polynesia will be presented below.
Polynesian tortoise
Even in ancient times, the turtle symbol was considered a protective amulet. This happened because the hard shell, according to ancient people, did not allow various evil forces to pass through it. In addition to strength and protection, the turtle also brings good health with long life, as well as a good and happy family.
Polynesian masks
Various masks were applied only to male warriors. It was believed that this tattoo protects in battle, and also protects from the evil eye and evil spirits. These masks are suitable for young, fearless guys who can always stand up for themselves.
Tiki mask
Polynesian patterns
As for Polynesian patterns, they are really very similar to each other, because they have the same elements, such as waves, zigzags, angles, and different lines. But we must not forget that each tattoo consists of a set of elements that have their own meaning, which does not intersect with other Polynesian tattoos.
Cross
As a rule, this symbol means an attitude towards faith. Previously, from the drawing it was possible to determine the class and tribe to which the person who wore a tattoo in the form of a cross belonged. This symbol can also mean harmony and strength of a man.
Sun
The sun illuminates the mind, thereby helping to achieve everything that a person has in mind. And in addition to clarity and warmth, it helps to find happiness, surround yourself with goodness and light.
Bear
It all depends on how the bear is drawn: it can be depicted as calm or aggressive. But if we consider what a tattoo depicting a bear means, we can note wisdom, the beginning of a new life, as well as power and perseverance.
Lizard
The lizard symbol opens the way to higher knowledge and enhances supernatural abilities.
Shark
Since ancient times, the shark has been considered the strongest animal, and in a tattoo it carries strength, perseverance and power.
Bull
The meaning of such a design made as a tattoo has always been clear: it signifies the embodiment of masculinity and strength. At all times, it was believed that the bull is a strong and invincible animal.
Ornament
Since ancient times, body ornaments have been considered decoration. Ornament is a pattern that is based on repeating elements. The ornament contained elements only of geometric shapes - circle, square, rhombus, oval. Moreover, each symbol has its own meaning. For example, a circle is the sun.
Best Places to Get Polynesian Tattoos
In ancient times, Maori tattoos were applied to the face to intimidate the enemy during battle. In the modern world, people don’t get tattoos on their faces, because there’s no one left to intimidate. Therefore, over time, the drawings migrated to other parts of the body. Let's take a closer look at them.
On the chest
It is better to apply patterns on the sternum that consist of crosses; they mean harmony, as well as the balance of forces and elements.
On the hand
If a straight line is depicted on the hand, such a design means the military path. Therefore, if when choosing an ornament, its meaning is taken into account, which includes a mention of the man’s military path, then it is best to wear a Maori tattoo on the shoulder. You can also apply a Polynesia tattoo on your arm in the form of a sleeve: this design looks the most impressive.
Forearm tattoo
It is better to apply tattoos on the forearm area that indicate strength, for example, it could be a large black symbol.
