History of Polynesian Tattoos

Sexy Tattoo

There is a mythological tale associated with "Polynesian tattoos". It is believed that the God of Creation, Ta'aroa, had two sons who taught this art, including designs, meanings and the technical aspects of the tattoos to the humans. In the earlier days, tattooing was considered to be a sacred art, and lots of rituals were attached to it which had to be followed while a person was getting tattooed.

The word 'tattoo' is derived from the Samoan (a Polynesian island) word, which means 'mark' or 'strike twice'. This word represents the ancient method of tattooing which is very different from what is done today. The equipment used for Polynesian tattoos were turtle shell, bird bone, bamboo, etc., with which cuts were made into the body and the tattoo inks were put into these cuts. The process of making tattoos on the body were considered very important and was accompanied by songs, music, etc. This painful tattooing process took a lot of time to get healed, but was essential because it symbolized courage and power. It was also believed that tattoos made a person sexually more attractive.

 

Each 'tattoo design' in a person's body represents a rank and status in the society, personal achievement or a particular stage in his/her life. The process of tattooing started when a child turned twelve years old, and was done to mark his transition from childhood to adulthood. Later more tattoos were added to the body as the person progresses in life. Tattoos also symbolized social status and prestige of an individual, and the person who had the maximum number of tattoos in the body was looked up with respect and admiration, whereas those who had no tattoos on their bodies were looked down upon. In case of women, tattooing was restricted to the arms, lips, hands, chin and arms.

Though tattooing was a custom since many centuries in Polynesia, when the English and missionaries arrived in Polynesia, the art of tattooing almost became extinct. However, in the 20th century, Polynesian tattooing was revived, and soon Polynesian tattoo designs became famous worldwide.

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Polynesian Tattoos can be made on any part of the body. But they are often wrist tattoos, sleeve tattoos, ribcage tattoos, etc. Celtic tattoos, tribal tattoos, etc. also can be used to make the Polynesian Tattoos look different. When you are looking for Polynesian Tattoos ideas, it is better to be open to ideas, so that you have a unique tattoo design. At the same time, reviewing your tattoo ideas will also help in making the tattoo look attractive and also "unique".

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