Body inking was popular since prehistoric times. Tribal tattoos had special symbolism for each tribe. Today, we have an enormous heritage of tribal tattoos from all over the world. They carry the rich history and traditions of tribes. In this collection of 50 Polynesian tattoos we have included the best tattoos from Polynesian tribes that are popular now.
Polynesia is a region of Oceania. It includes about 1000 small islands in Pacific Ocean. The inhabitants of the islands have their unique culture and traditions. Of course, there is much common including language and beliefs. The main islands of Polynesia are Hawaii, New Zealand, Easter Island, Samoa, Tonga, Cook Islands, Tuvalu and others. Tattooing was very important for all tribes. The process of tattooing was rather complicated. It required pain tolerance. For tattoo the master used handmade tool. Tribal tattoo wasn’t just a body decoration. It was a special body mark. Such tribal tattoos specified social status in tribe.
Nowadays, all the tattoo styles of Polynesian tribes are popular. Tribal tattoo has complicated structure. It has tiny geometric details. Each of those details has its meaning. The group of details form meaning.
In general, Polynesian tribal tattoos mean courage, protection and strength. Some signs also symbolize sexual attractiveness. Tattoo also characterized social status and rank. If you have decided to get an impressive tribal tattoo, check out the types of Polynesian tribal tattoo designs.
The Marquesa Island Tattoos.
According to legend the first inhabited island was the Marquesa Island. All the traditions started from the Marquesa Island. The tradadition of tattooing also originates from The Marquesa Islan. For the tribe, tattoos carried decorative role. They were inked on particular period of life.
Hawaiian Tattoos.
For Hawaii tribes tattoos carried protective symbolism. All tattoos were personalized. Popular Hawaiian tattoos are tribal flower and tribal turtle tattoos. There are also found other images in traditional patterns.
The Maori Tattoos.
Inhabitants of New Zealand are Maori. They have the richest culture and the most unique style of tattooing. Moreover, every single line and combination in a tattoo has its meaning. Tattoo grows and changes during the life of the bearer. Tattoo gets new spirals and lines. Each of the sign symbolizes specific stage of life. Plus, tattooing process is something like a sacred ritual for the bearer and tattoo master. Maori tattoo symbolizes strength, passion and courage.
Polynesian tribal tattoo is massive and impressive. It covers large area on body. This is why you should be ready for dramatic changes. The best part to get tribal tattoo is shoulder. Polynesian tribal tattoo for men is inked on shoulder and chest. It also looks foot and back. On the other hand, beautiful tribal pattern looks so amazing on woman’s sexy body. Tribal women tatoos are placed on rib, shoulder, lower back and thigh.
More Photos of Polynesian Tribal Tattoos
