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Apr 11, 2021 · Learn about the ancient tradition of Samoan tattoos, called tatau, and their cultural significance. Discover the symbols, designs, and meanings of these tribal tattoos that use black ink and patterns from nature.
Samoan tattoos, also known as “tatau,” have a profound meaning within Samoan culture. They serve as a visual representation of an individual’s personal and social identity, status, and history. Each tattoo carries a story that speaks to the wearer’s heritage, life experiences, and achievements.
Dec 28, 2023 · Understanding the cultural and spiritual meanings behind Samoan tattoos provides insight into the rich and profound traditions of the Samoan people. Symbolic Body Art Tradition With deep spiritual significance, Samoan tattoos are a tradition passed down through generations, reflecting the connection between the physical and spiritual realms.
- The Origins of Polynesian Society
- The Origins of Tattoo Art in Polynesia
- Tonga and Samoa
- Marquesan Art
- Tools of The Trade
- Pain
- The Healing Process
- Placement on The Body
- Polynesian Images and Motifs
There is still debate over the definitive origins of Polynesian culture and that transfers also, to the notion of tattooing. One thing that is certain is that the term Polynesian or Polynesia incorporates many tribes including Marquesans, Samoans, Niueans, Tongans, Cook Islanders, Hawaiians, Tahitians and Maori. All of these tribes are genetically ...
Historically there was no writing in Polynesian culture so the Polynesian’s used tattoo art that was full of distinctive signs to express their identity and personality. Tattoos would indicate status in a hierarchical society as well as sexual maturity, genealogy and ones rank within the society. Nearly everyone in ancient Polynesian society was ta...
It was in Tonga and Samoa that the Polynesian tattoo developed into a highly refined art. Tongan warriors were tattooed form the waist to the knees with a series of geometrical patterns, mostly consisting of repeated triangle motifs, bands and also areas of solid black. Priests who had undergone a long period of training who followed strictly presc...
Marquesan art and architecture were highly developed and Marquesan tattoo designs, which often covered the whole body, were the most elaborate in Polynesia.
Although many years have passed, the tools and techniques of Polynesian tattooing have changed very little. For a very traditional design the skill of tattoo art was usually handed down through generations. Each tattoo artist, or tufaga, was said to have learned the craft over many years of serving as an apprentice. The advent of Christianity in To...
The permanent marks left on someone after they have been tattooed would forever remember and commemorate their endurance and dedication to cultural traditions. The pain was extreme and the risk of death by infection was a huge concern for many people. However, to shy away from tattooing was to risk being labeled a coward or a pala’ai and to then be...
This process usually took months. The tattooed skin would have to be washed in salt water, to keep infection at bay and then the body area had to be massaged to keep out impurities. Family and friends would assist in the healing process because even extremely simple tasks e.g. walking and sitting, could irritate the inflamed skin and cause great pa...
Placement on the body plays a very important role in Polynesian tattooing. There are a few elements that are related to specific meanings based on where they are placed. So in short, their placement has an influence on the meaning of a Polynesian tattoo. Humans are said to be descendants or children of Rangi (Heaven) and Papa (Earth), which were sa...
1. Enata
Human figures, otherwise known as enata in Marquesan language, represent men, women and sometimes gods. They can be placed within a tattoo to represent people and their relations. If they are placed upside down then they can be used to represent defeated enemies. This is one example of the Enata in its singular form.
2. Enata
Over-stylised enata joined together in a row of people holding hands form the motif called ani ata, which translates to “cloudy sky”. Polynesian languages and a row of enata in a semi-circular form often represent the sky as well as the ancestors guarding their descendants.
3. Shark teeth
Shark teeth or niho mano deserve a space of their own. Sharks are one of the favourite forms that aumakua choose to appear to man. They represent protection, guidance and strength as well as fierocity however, they are also symbols of adaptability in many cultures. This is an example of simplified shark teeth.
The Traditional Samoan Tattoo for Men. Malofie is the formal (’higher Samoan language’) name of the tatau given to men. This tattoo is more commonly known as the pe’a, named for a pattern used in its design that resembles a bat ( pe’a in Samoan) sleeping upside down. In this post, I’ll be using both names ( malofie and pe’a ...
14. Polynesian Fish Tattoo. In Polynesian culture, fish is a symbol of prosperity, riches, fertility, and life. Particular parts of fish are used to represent different meanings. For example, shark teeth are used to symbolize protection and guidance. The fish symbol is widely used in Polynesian tattoo designs. 15.
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May 22, 2023 · Samoan Tattoos For centuries, Samoan tribal tattoos have been used to communicate stories, honor families and preserve cultural heritage. From intricate motifs to powerful symbols, discover the unique meanings behind these traditional designs and how they can be adapted in modern body art. Enata: Symbol of the Human Form Enata is a symbol of the […]
