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. Usually, a large number of People of high status had tattoos; ordinary people had very few designs on their bodies.

The process of tattooing 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 pattern has its own unique pattern, which consists of beautiful waves, spirals, zigzags and even geometric shapes.

IN modern world Tattoos in the Polynesian style are applied not only to male body, but also for women. 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

Usually, 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 do not get tattoos on their faces, because there is 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 sleeve tattoo on your arm: 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.

One of the categories of tattoos that are especially popular these days are Polynesian tattoos. Such drawings are bright and visible from afar. But distinctive feature These images show not only the brightness and originality of the design, but also a 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 quality. 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, more valuable, the respect of the entire society. Since the tattooing process was lengthy, in the priest’s house for a long time live those who wanted to receive a body pattern and deserved it. 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 – female version 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

Tattoos in the Polynesian style became popular among Europeans relatively recently, in the first half of the twentieth century. Of course, they came into fashion thanks to their complex, bizarre and unusually beautiful patterns, consisting of spirals, waves, zigzags, and geometric shapes. Even modern world celebrities (for example, John Dwayne) were seduced by such tattoos.

But few people think about their true, original purpose. In the archaic Polynesian culture, tattoos served not just to decorate the body, but they were invested with a deep sacred meaning. With their help, contact was established with the transcendental upper world.

The very process of applying a tattoo was a sacred sacrament, a rite that only a priest could perform. Each drawing had its own meaning, influencing the fate of the wearer. This perception of body painting in the Polynesian picture of the world goes back to the ideas and rituals of the ancient Maori tribe.

Tattooing in Polynesia was a kind of business card or, more precisely, played the role of an identity document. She reported to what clan, and at the same time tribe, a person belongs, what kind of social status, what feats and worthy deeds he performed in life, what he became famous for.

The sketches of Polynesian tattoos captured in the photo are reminiscent of ancient artistic wood carvings, which not only perform an aesthetic function, but are endowed with great sacred content. The tree in the primitive, especially totemic consciousness was also deified, spiritualized, and identified with the human body.

In mythological concepts, the human body was likened to the world, the Universe, and in the astral understanding it was divided into zones of intersection of various energy flows. It was on these areas that drawings were applied in order to block the influence of, for example, negativity, to bring good into life, correct character, change or improve fate, as if rewriting what was destined for it. The result directly depended on the image and the symbolism associated with it.

• in the ancient Polynesian sense, it personifies protection, an impenetrable energy shell that will not allow any evil forces into life. It also brings health, family strength, longevity
• means eternity, interconnection and continuity of life, as well as death. Attracts life-giving warmth, Happiness, goodness, success in planned enterprises.
• considered a powerful amulet. Protects from negativity. Gives inner freedom, sophistication and attractiveness.
• gives power, authority, willpower and perseverance. Protects from enemies and all kinds of harm.
• (and at the same time, gecko, iguana) opens higher knowledge, the gift of clairvoyance, enhances supernatural abilities.

And today, in our technological and civilized age, tattoos on some Polynesian islands have not lost their sacred meaning and are used to communicate with higher deities.

Video of tattoo in Polynesian style

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 in the process sometimes caused unbearable injuries. painful sensations. 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 as a tattoo is chosen 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.

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 good master.

Story

The origin of such intricate patterns 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. This is what we will look at below in more detail. 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 are different types, but all of them are 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, arrowheads, 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 was believed to be capable of protecting 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 design 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 make yourself a neat one Polynesian tattoo on your hand or stuff 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.