History
The origin of such intricate patterns is quite interesting. Tattoos are called Polynesian because they originally appeared in Polynesia with the Maori tribe. The process of applying the pattern was considered sacred, so only the priests had the right to impose them. And as you can already guess, tattoos were also made not for beauty, each of them had a special sacred meaning and were according to the people a certain divine channel. Drawings could be on a certain body part (shin, chest, thigh, face, hands, etc.) or on several at once.
They also played a great role in the tribal society of that time. According to the tattoos about a person could determine: the character, tribe, occupation, origin and much more. However, it is worth noting the fact that such a drawing could do itself only men, but in no case women.
The history of origin and features of the style
The first Europeans to visit the Polynesian islands were members of the famous around-the-world expedition of Fernand Magellan. Encountering the natives, the Spanish and Portuguese members of the expedition were amazed by the abundance of painted bodies of local people. The leaders were distinguished by large drawings on the face, people of lower rank - a small amount of tattoos. The very process of drawing was complicated, accompanied by special rituals with songs, dances and prayers.
Many tattoos served as a kind of message and told about the person, describing his merits before the tribe, character traits, belonging to the clan and place in the hierarchy, that is, they were symbols similar to the heraldic symbols on the shields of European knights. A new stage in the history of body painting came thanks to their most avid admirers - sailors.
Sketches of Polynesian tattoos
Polynesian tattoos (sketches of this style are given below) were brought to Europe by James Cook, he and is the ancestor of the word "tattoo". Returning from his travels, he took with him a native of Polynesia named Omayo, whose body was covered with intricate tattoos. His participation in fairs and large-scale circus performances greatly excited the public. However, it was the sailors who were the main fans of tattoos. Being superstitious, they wanted the drawings covering their bodies to protect them during storms and ward off evil spirits.
Sketches of the Polynesian style tattoo appeared in all the salons of the modern world, while retaining the main features of the art of the ancients:
- Massiveness;
- rudeness;
- ornaments and patterns;
- lines - wide, long, thin and short;
- symmetry;
- clarity;
- the intricacy of geometric elements;
- meanders, waves, spirals, zigzags;
- lack of play of colors and shadows.
It is the peculiar features of the style that gave rise to its wide dissemination.
What is it?
Sketches of Polynesian tattoos are not to be confused with anything else. Each of them consists of small patterns, geometric figures, spirals, curves, lines and other details, which all together eventually form a whole picture. For example, a turtle, a wave, and more. When choosing, you should know what is the meaning of the Polynesian tattoo. This and we will consider below in detail on specific examples.
The stingray
The stingray tattoo in Polynesian culture was a powerful symbol of protection. Many tribes praised this animal, which they perceived as beautiful, wise and not aggressive to humans. At the same time, it is very poisonous.
It expresses a drawing on its body of calmness and deliberateness, which borders on dangerous grace and (if necessary) venomous beauty.
TIKI
Very interesting are Polynesian-style tattoos in the form of masks. They are also called TIKI. In ancient times, only hunters and warriors of the tribe could wear such images of masks. Why? Because these very people were in greater danger due to their activities, and the TIKI could protect them in difficult times, protect them from the attacks of animals and people and, most importantly, from evil spirits. Such Polynesian masks have eyes, when looking into which all "unclean forces" are intimidated. As a rule, Polynesians had several tattoos with TIKI masks on different parts of the body to ward off evil from all sides.
Origin
The homeland of the mysterious ligature is Samoa. From there went a particular style in tattooing - tribal, which literally means like a tribe - belonging to one single tribe. This image has never been superficial and is one of the oldest for tattoo artistry.
It could only be applied by priests - special in the tribe people, before the tattoo master had to read prayers and perform a whole set of rituals to placate their gods and get permission to work. The image could not be obtained for nothing, it was awarded to the rulers, priests and warriors, it is a male sign.
The procedure itself was a very painful process - of course, there were no modern machines. And it took a lot of courage to dare to do such an action on the body. The technique was simple - drawing with wooden sticks with incisions in the skin.
Lizard
As you can see, the Polynesians, through their images and patterns on the body, sought to adopt all the best features and qualities embodied by these objects or creatures. The same thing happened, for example, with the drawing of a lizard. They come in different kinds, but all of them are distinguished by speed, dodginess, and courage. As a rule, these tattoos were worn by soldiers to help them in difficult times. If the lizard was depicted with a turtle, it meant that the bearer of the tattoo - a man of his word.
Turtle
A Polynesian turtle (tattoo) on a person's body meant that its wearer was calm and wise. It was applied to the poised and resilient members of the tribe, who are strong in body and spirit. There are a large number of samples of shells to depict this animal.
The image of the turtle against the background of a sunny dawn meant that the person was industrious and hoarding. In addition, the animal on the body became a real amulet, whose main task - to prolong the life of the owner.
Meaning of symbols
Above we have considered the main variants of images and drawings, which are composed of patterns and details. However, in addition to them, there are smaller, but no less important symbols of Polynesian tattoo, each of which also has its own meaning. From these, as a rule, large drawings are also created.
These symbols are interesting not only in terms of the history of tattooing, but also to study the culture and mentality of the tribes of Oceania as a whole. For example, a famous traveler and ethnographer Carl von den Steinen at the end of the XIX century (1897-98) made a lot of useful notes on the life of the Polynesian tribes. He passed them on to other scholars and universities. In his notes, he also touched on the symbols to which the Polynesians attached great importance.
Let's look more closely at the meanings of these drawings.
Women's Tattoos of Polynesia
For girls and women from Polynesia and the Samoan archipelago the design and tattoos themselves had a very different meaning than for men. Beautiful islanders received their first tattoo at puberty and it indicated they were ready to get married and considered for marriage.
After the official marriage with all the rituals performed, the girl received from the priest part of the male tattoo of her lawful spouse.
Interestingly, the absence of nudes on the female body could indicate that the woman is not able to endure pain, and therefore will not be able to bear and give birth to a child, to continue the lineage.
Enata
Man (in other words - "enata") - a fairly simple symbol. As a rule, comes as part of the complex drawings, and denotes close people. If the enata is upside down, it symbolizes defeated enemies.
Also many Polynesian peoples depicted a circle of these little men, translated as "cloudy sky," which symbolizes the sky, as well as all the ancestors who, according to tradition, can patronize the living.
And the likeness of two figures joined together usually depicts a marriage, a wedding, a couple.
The enata symbols are very easy to confuse with other depictions 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 human figures in the Polynesian tattoo. Some variations are simplified so much that they represent a kind of geometric image, only slightly resembling a person.
Sharks
This animal traditionally symbolizes perseverance, tenacity, strength. The shark has been worn on the chest, shins and thighs. Made images of these predatory animals to fishermen from sea monsters. The men of the shark tribe were protected from enemies and other threats.
Drawing on the body in the form of a shark under the sun symbolized eternal strength and power, and the combination of a dolphin and a shark meant a strong friendship.
In today's world, Polynesian tattoos have already lost the meaning that was originally put into them. Their popularity is due to how spectacular they look on the body. Patterns that consist of many intricacies, small elements, waves, spirals, ribbons, strike the imagination and attract fans of tattoos all over the world.
Objects
Small simplified images of objects could also make a whole picture. For example, spears, spearheads, sharp objects (fangs, stingers) and other implements of battle could be drawn on it to indicate a human warrior. They were also often made into a long chain or circle.
Another indispensable item in Polynesian life, which was both a tool for fighting and used to build houses/canoes, was the hoe. It symbolized skill, strength, and respect.
And by the drawing of the baton it was possible to identify the chief of the tribe, as only they used it in battles. This object denotes leadership, nobility, honor, respect, and honorability. In general, all the qualities of an ideal chief.
Tattoo shark: meaning for guys and girls, history, description, photos
By nature, the shark is a perfect predator with a subtle "nose", cunning, speed and strength. This is exactly the meaning that can hide behind a tattoo. Most people associate the image of the fish with ruthlessness, bloodthirstiness and fury. Therefore, the white shark tattoo is best suited for strong, confident individuals, ready to fight to the end and even show cruelty to others.
A shark is also a symbol of danger, fearlessness, cunning and even some cunning. The tattoo with the image of this fish is often used by goal-oriented people in order to emphasize their character or, on the contrary, to develop some new qualities. One of the other variants of the value - the craving for freedom, independence from public opinion and rules. The owner of a tattoo with a shark usually wants to impress others, to cause them fear, respect or at least curiosity to his person.
As you know, these fish never stay in place, are constantly in motion and are distinguished by the speed of their swimming. With this another meaning of the shark tattoo is connected: the constant development, the ability to adapt to any situation, the desire to express themselves and tirelessly go to their dreams.
Everyone is familiar with the phrases "shark of business" or "shark of politics". They symbolize that the person has an iron grip, leadership qualities, greed, a strong sense of superiority and used to dominate in everything, always win (there is a similar meaning in gambling). From here came the other designation of the tattoo: power, the desire to control other people. Because of this, the white shark tattoo can often be found in successful businessmen, executives, and athletes. For them, such a tattoo serves not only as a reminder of victories, but also as a personal talisman, an assistant that will allow them to reach new heights.
What does the shark tattoo mean for sailors?
In the Middle Ages, tattoos depicting these fish were especially common among sailors and fishermen. They symbolized fearlessness, courage, and a willingness to face both these predators and other dangers in the sea. Sailors considered the image with a shark a powerful talisman, which will help to return home, and if it is not destined to return - to die proudly, with his head held high.
Shark tattoo: meaning in the area
The greatest symbolism of prison tattoos acquired in the early twentieth century in the former Soviet Union. Since the shark is not a typical inhabitant of these latitudes, then the tattoo with such an image from the convicts is not common. The meaning of the shark tattoo on the zone can be different. By analogy with the world symbolism of the animal, the stuffed fish symbolizes freedom, the desire to get out of prison, as well as strength, fearlessness and aggressiveness.
In cities standing on the shore of the sea, there is another interpretation. Often the shark tattoo on the zone is at greedy people who went to jail for embezzlement or bribery. Less commonly, this predatory fish was stuffed onto themselves by smugglers and those who committed illegal shipping by sea.
Animals
Of other simple symbols, islanders in Oceania often imprinted animals on their bodies. For example, it was not uncommon to depict millipedes. They, like stingrays: are generally harmless, but poisonous, so they are dangerous and symbolize courage, fighting spirit.
Lizards (geckos, moko), which often appear in the ancient myths of many peoples, also have a special sacred meaning. Polynesian tribesmen think that these animals bring good luck and protection from evil forces. In some cases, the image of a moko meant divine origin.
Another important animal in the tattoos of Polynesia is the turtle ("honu"). This symbolizes the family, fertility, longevity, peacefulness, the ocean, and freedom. A similar meaning belongs to the symbol of the whale.
Fish was important to the islanders because it was the main source of food. And that is why an image with a fish meant abundance, prosperity, life. And the pattern of scales was thought to be capable of being a protection for a person.
Often the inhabitants of the islands tattooed themselves with sharks, or more precisely, with their sharp triangular teeth. Such a symbol means strength, courage. It is believed that the picture can protect in the water. In addition, there is also the symbol of the hammerhead shark, which also symbolizes sociality, friendship.
Maori Men's Tattoos
Maori have historically had gender equality. Both men and women can be warriors. And both the former and the latter have the right to tattoos. However, more often and in greater numbers, patterns are applied to the bodies of members of the stronger sex.
The reason is the philosophy of the people. The Indians are convinced that the male body is external, that is, it's connected with the processes of the macrocosm. Women's energy is directed inside, to the microcosm, that is, the continuation of the race.
So, The meaning of Maori tattoo designs for men - strengthening the connection with the universe. Therefore, the tattoo of the people of New Zealand does not tolerate asymmetry.
All images are divided into equal, duplicate parts. There must be a universal harmony in everything. Otherwise, the settings of the energy body of the man will be confused.
In addition to the face, the areas of tattooing in Māori men are the shoulders and buttocks. The Indians believe that the succession of tattoos creates a special energy structure.
It, unlike the human body, is immortal, preserved when the Maori go to the next world. It turns out that that to tattoo a Maori tattoo means trying to immortalize yourself in the form of an energy sphere.
In general, there is a lot of occult and esoteric motifs in the Indians' view of the world. For an ancient people trying to preserve its identity, this is typical. By the way, the indigenous Indians constitute about 15% of the population of New Zealand.
Once, the Maori were its rightful owners, until James Cook arrived on the islands. This happened in the 18th century. Since then the settlement of Zealand by Europeans began.
How to get a Polynesian tattoo nowadays?
If previously not everyone could afford such tattoos, but only men of some tribes in Oceania, now everything has become much easier and more accessible. If you have gone through the guidebook of Polynesian tattoos and firmly decided to make yourself the desired drawing, now you need to find a master in a tattoo parlor. At such places, there are usually many of the tattoo artists who know how to do such things. They draw a sketch or immediately stuffed on the selected image. You can make yourself a neat Polynesian tattoo on the arm or score the whole body, the scope for imagination is wide enough.
However, many believe that such patterned drawings should be done just in Polynesia. And indeed, only there you can feel the sacredness of such action. Often, there, drawings are made the way the distant Polynesian ancestors did, with the help of an animal fang (such as a shark or a boar). It is worth noting that it is painful, but at the same time a more impressive process.
Where is the stuffing?
What parts of the body are most often stuffed with this particular pattern?
- On the arm;
- On the shoulder;
- On the leg.
Less often on the back or collarbone. It is an entire arm or part of an intended plot, not a single small element. It is the first attempt, or one of the stories in a series of a person's journey.
But there is also a gender interpretation. So the female half of humanity beats on the waist and sides, and descends to the thigh in beautiful patterns. This adds sexuality and femininity, an alluring quality and pleasant energy.
And men beat on the convex parts of the body where the muscles are most visible, usually the arms and back. It is so easy to identify athletes and athletes who have a well-developed physique and the images on it look attractive, just as in ancient times warriors did.
Once you have chosen an idea, you should find the right professional. Trust only proven professionals who have their own salon and portfolio. You should not start working without looking at the photos of the master's previous works, this approach will allow you to avoid problematic situations after you have finished what you have started.
It doesn't hurt to talk to the master and make sure that he is a good professional who thinks exactly the same way as you do. The common vector of views will not allow to make a mistake and then rip on the hair at a failed or not such as you wanted tattoo.
Make a sketch and discuss the details and then go to the amazing and aesthetically beautiful universe of tattoos, because this is real art and it is recognized everywhere! The world's museums hold exhibitions dedicated to this craft, putting it on a par with the world's fine art masterpieces! May this act of demonstrating an amazing feeling be a landmark in your life.
