In Hawaiian culture, tattoos were considered to be more personalized in nature, with respect to the fact that they conveyed a meaning related to the bearer.Īnother purpose of tattoos in this culture was that they were considered to be protective talismans, and sometimes a way to honor a deceased loved one. It is believed that the first tribal people of Polynesia came to the Marquesas Islands and it is from here that they spread to various other Polynesian Islands.Īs such, tattoos were an important part of the culture of the Marquesas Islands and they were specifically borne for aesthetic purposes, as well as marking the rites of passage through different phases of life. Tribal tattoos across Polynesian islands were therefore largely similar, though some differences in style and significance appeared. Polynesia is made up of over 1,000 islands which, although sharing highly similar culture, language, and customs, are still distinct societies with minor differences and defining features. Significance of Polynesian tattoos in different tribes

This resulted in long, painful healing and high risk of infection – standing as a further testament to the individual’s courage and ability to withstand physical pain.Īccording to some sources, the word ‘tattoo’ actually originates from Polynesia.Ĭaptain James Cook, who was the first navigator to attempt to explore the Polynesian Triangle in the late eighteenth century, learned about the practice of tattooing while visiting the islands.Īllegedly, it was he who introduced the word ‘tattoo’ to Europe, as he brought back with his tales of the tribal tattooing ceremonies. The process itself was a painful one since tattoos were done using crude equipment such as bamboos and animal bones. Tattoos were, therefore, a mark of adulthood (which was reached at the age of 12) and of particular achievements, as well as being a sign of courage and strength. Only individuals who have passed a set of rites were permitted to get a tattoo, which would often signify their position and ranking within the local society.

The art of tattooing was considered a sacred practice and the process of getting a tattoo involved a ceremony with a series of rituals. The history of tattoos in Polynesia goes back over two thousand years. These designs are closely tied to the tribal cultures and traditions of Polynesian islands.Īlthough to the untrained eye they may look like random patterns focused solely on aesthetics, in fact, every element of a Polynesia themed tattoo carries specific symbolic value.

Polynesian tattoos are a distinctive form of tribal tattoo art, originating from the Polynesia subregion of Oceania.

Design your own polynesian tattoo