Tattoos in Tahiti: History and Meaning
The origin of tattooing in Polynesia
Tattooing is an ancient practice in Polynesia, and it is deeply rooted in the culture and history of this region. Polynesian tattoos are also known as “tatau”, “kakau” or “uhi”, depending on the island or region. Tattoos are made by piercing the skin with bone or bamboo needles, and inserting soot-based ink.
According to some experts, tattooing in Polynesia began more than 2000 years ago, with the arrival of the first inhabitants in the region. According to Polynesian mythology, the creator god Ta’aroa created three elements: earth, water and humans. For the Polynesians, the human body was therefore sacred, and the tattoo was considered a way to connect with nature and the gods.
The meaning of Polynesian tattoos
Polynesian tattoos hold deep and personal meaning for those who wear them. Each motif has a different meaning, which can vary considerably between the different islands of Polynesia. For example, on the island of Tahiti, the tattoo represented the social status of the person, while on the Marquesas Islands it was used to indicate the profession.
Polynesian motifs can also represent an important event in the person’s life, such as the birth of a child, a wedding or the death of a loved one. Polynesian tattoos can also depict animals or symbols, which may have spiritual or cultural significance in the region.
Polynesian tattoo styles
There are several styles of Polynesian tattoos. For example, the Maori style is primarily associated with New Zealand, while the Samoan style is more common in the Samoa Islands. The Tahitian style is also very popular in the region, and it is characterized in particular by spiral, arrow-shaped or wave-shaped patterns.
Polynesian tattoos are also known for their large size and intricacy. Tattoos often cover a large part of the body, such as the arms, back, chest, or legs. Tattoos can also be done in multiple sessions, and healing can take several weeks or months.
Tattoos in Tahiti
Tattoos in Tahiti have a particularly strong meaning, and they have been deeply influenced by the history and culture of this region. Tahitian tattoos were traditionally reserved for people of high social status, such as chiefs or warriors. The tattoo was a sign of respect and power, and it often expressed the strength and courage of the person.
The most common Polynesian motifs in Tahiti are spiral, arrow-shaped, manta rays, sea turtles and dolphins. These patterns often symbolize elements of nature that were important to Polynesians, such as the ocean and the animals that live there.
In conclusion
Polynesian tattoos are an ancient art form that hold deep and personal meaning for those who wear them. Polynesian patterns have a different meaning on different islands in the region, and they can represent an important event in a person’s life, a profession or an animal. Tahitian tattoos in particular have a powerful meaning, and they are often associated with strength, courage, and nature. Polynesian tattoos continue to have a significant impact on the region’s culture and society.
FAQs
- What is the meaning of the tattoo in Polynesia?
- What are the most common designs in Polynesian tattoos?
- How are Polynesian tattoos made?
- What is the meaning of Tahitian tattoos?
The tattoo in Polynesia has a deep and personal meaning for those who wear them. Each motif has a different meaning, which can vary considerably between the different islands of Polynesia. For example, on the island of Tahiti, the tattoo represented the social status of the person, while on the Marquesas Islands it was used to indicate the profession.
The most common Polynesian designs are spiral, arrow, manta ray, sea turtle and dolphin designs. These patterns often symbolize elements of nature that were important to Polynesians, such as the ocean and the animals that live there.
Polynesian tattoos are made by piercing the skin with bone or bamboo needles, and inserting soot-based ink. Tattoos can cover a large area of the body, and healing can take several weeks or months.
Tahitian tattoos were traditionally reserved for people of high social status, such as chiefs or warriors. The tattoo was a sign of respect and power, and it often expressed the strength and courage of the person. The most common Tahitian motifs are spiral, arrow-shaped, manta rays, sea turtles and dolphins.