Tattoo in Polynesian style. Best Places to Get Polynesian Tattoos

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

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

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

In the modern world, Polynesian style tattoos are applied not only to the male body, but also to the female body. 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

As a rule, 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 don’t get tattoos on their faces, because there’s 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 tattoo on your arm in the form of a sleeve: 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.

According to one version, the history of tattooing began at the end of the 19th century with the invention of the electric tattoo machine. But this is only one of the stages of its development. It all started much earlier, on the islands of Polynesia. Even the name itself appeared as a derivative of the Polynesian word “tatau”, which means “drawing”.
And, although art was isolated from most continents, it originated there. The task of the “tatau” was quite important: to tell about the status of the owner, to protect, to reveal his inner potential. Symbols in Polynesia were applied to the arms, shoulders, legs... Almost the entire body, including the face, although they were not considered decoration. In addition, it was more of a male privilege - some drawings had to be earned by proving superiority and strength. And the custom of tattooing itself was considered sacred.

How did Polynesian tribes and symbols spread to Europe? The credit goes to the sailors traveling around the world. It was they who adopted the tradition from the Indians and became the first owners of old school tattoos. And also among sailors the custom arose of looking at drawings as talismans of good luck. Of course, their ideas had nothing to do with Polynesia, but they seriously influenced history as a whole.

Men's tattoos in Polynesian style

Beautiful, original patterns consisting of bends, spirals and waves attract people with extraordinary imagination. These are strong, bright personalities who strive for development. Among them are actors, athletes, musicians, natural leaders, and more. As on the Polynesian islands, the drawings are selected to suit the character and goals of the customer. For example, a shark symbolizes predation, strength and independence. And the turtle means calm, harmony, longevity. At the same time, both of them are characterized by wisdom. And both of them will fit perfectly on the shoulder. Just tell the master about your wishes, and he will create a unique sketch for you.

Polynesia for girls

Women feel the world around them very subtly. Intuition, wisdom, love help with this... That's why Polynesia tattoos are so suitable for them - they reflect their essence and help them unlock their potential. Even a large tattoo on the thigh or back will be feminine and sexy - ethnic patterns follow the natural curves and relief. It is only important to position them correctly! Therefore, we recommend that you contact experienced craftsmen - professionals in their field!

The art of drawings on the body originated on the Pacific islands - in this way the Polynesians told others about themselves, protected them from adversity and emphasized their special status. Read on to learn all about tattoos in this style.

History of style

Start

Polynesia is a subregion of thousands of islands in the Pacific Ocean. It forms a triangle, the vertices of which are New Zealand, Easter Island and the Hawaiian Islands. Now it is difficult to determine when the first people appeared there - scientists are inclined to the middle of the first millennium BC, but cannot name the exact year or century. But Ferdinand Magellan was the first European to reach Polynesia - in 1521 he arrived on one of the islands, which he named San Pablo. Since then, the world has gradually become acquainted with the original Polynesian culture, and especially with the culture of tattooing - this is where this art originated.

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The Polynesian style is divided into several substyles based on the names of the islands: Hawaiian tattoos, Maori, Samoa, Tahiti, Tiki - and each of them has recognizable black patterns.

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For Polynesians, body drawings are a business card and a kind of passport: they tell about their status in the tribe, about their exploits, and about spiritual development. Patterns on the forehead show success in battle, patterns on the chin indicate origin, on the cheeks indicate profession, and on the chest and wrists indicate position in society. Large unfolded spirals on the buttocks speak of restoration and a kind of renewal, closed ones symbolize infinity and perfection.

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Creating a painting on the body is a sacred rite that is performed only by a priest: using a hammer and a sharpened tooth/needle/stone, he knocks out patterns into which he sprinkles dye. The blood is wiped off so that drops do not fall on the ground.

Now

The Polynesian style tattoo is massive, clear and symmetrical. Geometric spirals, waves, circles, triangles are filled with black pigment, thin and wide lines, without playing with color and shadow.

The drawings use marine animals - stingrays, turtles, sharks - and images of the sun, moon, and traditional Tiki mask. The meanings of all symbols are different, it’s easy to make a mistake, so it’s better to talk to a specialist before choosing a tattoo.

Interesting: people with tattoos in this style

The famous American actor and wrestler Dwayne Johnson, nicknamed “The Rock,” made his debut in the ring in 1996, and appeared in films for the first time in 2001. Charismatic and in good shape, he quickly gained popularity in both areas, and was included in the Guinness Book of Records as the owner of the highest fee for the first leading role.

According to Dwayne himself, every stroke in his Polynesian tattoo has a certain meaning: important events in his life, memories, good luck charms. Well, this tattoo definitely suits him!