Polynesian Maori tattoos are very complex motifs that originated from ancient cultures and traditions and are enjoying growing popularity. Is there a difference between Maori and Polynesian tattoos? Polynesia is the geographical region of Oceania between New Zealand, Hawaii and Easter Island.
Polynesian tattoos have Hawaiian, Samoan, Maori and Aztec origins. Each of these cultures has its unique patterns that have their own meaning. Therefore the difference between the motifs is very small. Today we will tell you about the most common patterns.
Tiki is a humanoid figure that represents Polynesian demigods. Above all, they symbolize protection and have a guardian role. Tiki plays a very important role in Polynesian culture. Tiki organs are often drawn separately to represent different meanings. For example, nose symbols mean the danger of smelling and detecting it early. Tiki eyes, nose, mouth and sides are important design elements for most Polynesian tattoo designs.
Teeth are also not uncommon. In combination with a closed mouth, such a design can be created for two calves or arms, where Polynesian Maori tattoos are similar in shape but differ in terms of motifs. This means you can use several Maori motifs and meanings you want at the same time.
In the PolynesianTattoo-DesignsShells are very common and presented in many variations. They often have many variations and stylizations. They represent protection and intimacy. Conch shells symbolize couples and marriage. More specifically, they are depicted in the form of sea snail shells. So family people can also fall back on it.
The turtle is another symbol and a very important sea creature for Polynesian culture. Other complex motifs are also embedded in the turtle shell, which could have a whole range of meanings. Basically, the turtle symbolizes longevity, fertility and peace.
The Marquesas Cross is another symbol that is very popular and used in many Polynesian tattoo designs. It often represents the balance between the elements and symbolizes harmony. Its origin is unknown, but some archaeological studies show that it refers to the tortoise shell.
It is sometimes confused with the lizard symbol. One way to distinguish between the two is to find out whether the symbol has a “tail” and a “head”. Then it quickly becomes clear what is shown. In a way, the cross is reminiscent of the compass, which in turn does not symbolize the elements, but rather the four cardinal points.
In tribal tattoos, the sun is often combined with other symbols to express different meanings. In Polynesian culture, the sun symbolizes wealth, splendor, majesty and power. The sunrise represents rebirth and the sunset represents a transition to the world beyond.
Often just the sun's rays are drawn to represent the sun. The sun does not necessarily have to be completely depicted and can be combined with some other suns in other areas of the tattoo. You can see a great example of this above. A larger half sun is depicted in the shoulder area and combined with a smaller one in opposite color and side.
The sun motif can, but does not have to, be the focus of the entire tattoo design. If you choose the different motifs, you can create a composition according to your ideas. It is advisable to choose a tattoo artist with experience in this area who can give you the best advice. Highlight particularly important Polynesian Maori tattoo symbols for you.
Sea symbols are very common in Polynesian Maori tattoo designs. They are used as gap fillers to complete the tattoo. Polynesian people consider the sea as their final destination after they die. So sometimes the sea is a symbol of death or the world beyond.
This does not mean the mussels and turtles already mentioned. These and some other sea symbols have their own meanings. Often the sea is represented by wave patterns instead. The sea is also considered an important source of food and represents life, fertility and endurance. So it is another important motif for Maori tattoo designs.
The squid, octopus or octopus are known for their regenerating properties and symbolize just that. Added to this is the versatility and ingenuity, knowledge and intelligence - meanings that make it a popular motif. Not to forget, these sea creatures are also an important source of food. The animal can be depicted with typical motifs and patterns.
Shark teeth are another symbol that is very popular in Polynesian Maori tattoos. Over 50% of Polynesian tattoos have shark teeth embedded in the design. It is also called “niho mano” in the Polynesian language. The motifs are easy to recognize because they consist of a zigzag pattern, i.e. several triangles lined up next to each other.
Shark teeth represent protection, leadership, power, fierceness, adaptability, etc. In Polynesian legends, sharks also represent the god of the Polynesians. Its authoritarian charisma makes the shark motif very popular. It can be used to fill gaps or frame certain areas or the entire tattoo. The triangles can be tapered to any point, i.e. they can be made both equilateral and isosceles.
In Polynesian culture, lizards and geckos are considered a manifestation of the gods called Moko (which is also the name of the facial tattoo in Maori culture). This creature can talk to the gods, observes the world beyond, brings luck. In Maori culture it is believed that the lizard protects against evil and disease.
The spearheads can be seen in almost every Polynesian tattoo design. The symbol stands for courage and fight. They are also commonly used in combination with other symbols to express specific meanings. For example, a band of spearheads and a band of Enata symbols on its side can mean victory over the opponent.
“Enata” is a typical motif and symbolizes people and gods. It comes from the Marquesas language and represents life experiences, birth, role in society, etc. It can also represent relationships such as marriage, family, relatives and friends. An inverted Enata sign can also symbolize an opponent.
Of course, you decide for yourself which area of the body you want Polynesian tattoos for. While women prefer smaller designs for the hand area, neck, back, foot or thigh, men like to use larger sleeve ideas that cover not only the upper arm, but also the forearm and even the shoulder and breast can take.
The designs undoubtedly require good planning and that you be well informed about the possibilities, symbols and motifs so that you can consider everything important and get a perfect design. You don't have to be very comprehensive either. Subtle tattoo designs like the example above are just as attractive and can be completely sufficient.
This motif for a lady's thigh is also subtle. The female representatives among them in particular will prefer such variants. Instead of one large tattoo, you can also consider two or three smaller ones, chosen for different areas but still incorporating all the important symbols. A consultation with the tattoo artist can also help with this.
