Maori tattoo: what hides the unusual pattern
Tattoos of the Maori tribe were considered by representatives of New Zealand culture as an obligatory component of initiation rites. The drawing, which was called "tamoko", was never single - it was continued throughout life, decorating every corner of the body with a tattoo - from the forehead to the toes. By the look and symbols of the wearable decor, those around them immediately understood what social position its owner occupied, what kind of family he belonged to, how high the family's wealth was.
And today, Maori tattoos are images flowing into each other with fragments of the animal, flora, unusual geometric patterns, in which spiral elements prevail. Traditionally, men are required to print designs on the entire surface of the body, including the nose, cheekbones, forehead, while women can decorate with a thematic tattoo only such parts of the face as the bottom of the lips and cheeks.
Maori-style tattoos are recognizable by the prevalence of the following elements:
- ornaments curving in different directions as a talisman, contributing to the acquisition of wisdom, protection, the successful accomplishment of our plans;
- spiral bark, reminiscent of the leaves of a fern in full bloom;
- geometric shapes that merge into integral drawings of representatives of the water element, living and inanimate nature.
Maori tattoos are interpreted based on the appearance of the picture. If these are spiral elements, the number of turns matters. When it is from one to three, the tattoo symbolizes the value of friendship, the ability to remain faithful, to be loyal to loved ones.
Features of men's tattoos
A properly chosen Maori-style tattoo on a relief male body acquires a special magnetism. An energetically powerful aura is created around the signs of sacred meaning, which greatly enhances the message of the picture. If a man himself believes in the action of such an amulet, his protective abilities will fully manifest.
A Maori tattoo with a masculine character is, first of all, geometric compositions, images of the sun. On large pumped-up muscles, dangerous representatives of the water element drawn in black and white look advantageous as one of the components of a complex plot.
A Polynesian-style scale drawing is always created from the bottom up, due to which the result appears inthe form of a composition in which strict geometric laws are traced. An experienced master, when choosing a sketch, must take into account different aspects of a man's personality, reflecting them in the elements of a tattoo.
Often masks that are outwardly associated with shamanic rituals become one of the central components of men's tattoos. Such marks on the body personify a good spirit, designed to protect the owner of the tattoo.
Maori tattoos for girls
Photos of Maori tattoos for the fair sex demonstrate the predominance of sophisticated forms and feminine lines, curves. Unlike men's drawings, such charm pictures occupy a small area, without moving from one part of the body to another. The priority is to apply wearable decor to the thighs, abdomen, groin area. Tattoos in these areas are intimate and help to attract the attention of a strong half. The most daring girls can follow the ancient traditions of Polynesian tattoos, decorating the chin area, nose wings, lips.
Combinations of floral ornaments and spiral elements, miniature images of animals in a geometric design characteristic of Maori look appropriate and beautiful on a woman's body. No less interesting and fascinating are tattoo bracelets encircling the ankles and wrists.
Beautiful Maori Tattoos
Eye-catching tattoos of the Maori tribe are replete with different natural subjects, conveyed in a special ethnic manner. But there are a number of drawings that make the tattoo especially expressive.
Sun
The daylight as the central element of the tattoo is a symbol of wisdom, inner strength, serves as a talisman. The solar disk is also associated with the birth of a new life, renewal.
The sun as an element of Maori style tattoos helps to attract good, success, a sense of happiness. Artists advise those who stubbornly strive for change to get such a tattoo.
Bracelet
Maori bracelets can be presented in very different designs - in the form of repeating geometric signs enveloping the hand, ornaments with a predominance of plant elements, spirals. The latter are especially symbolic. The spirally drawn decor symbolizes personal growth, a new round of life, active realization, renewal.
Shark
Initially, the Maori tribes wereto the shark as a sacred animal, marking its exceptional intelligence. In modern tattoos, the shark image is associated with power, power. The sea predator also acts as a protective amulet that prevents the influence of malevolent thoughts and actions.
Turtle
Such decor on a female or male body sets its owner for prosperity, longevity, and the acquisition of well-being. They pay maximum attention to the drawing of the shell of the marine life, clearly outlining spirals, labyrinths, and complex patterns. Outwardly, the image resembles a drawing burned on wood, in which even the slightest stroke becomes significant.
Skat
A dangerous inhabitant of the deep sea in the form of a tattoo symbol is a powerful amulet. He protects not only from external negativity, but also from his own negative thoughts. Also, the Maori-style sign embodies inner freedom, sophistication and attractiveness, which is why it is often present in women's tattoos.
When choosing a sketch of a Polynesian tattoo, it is important to understand that such a pattern is extremely difficult to cover. Therefore, you need to discuss all controversial points with the master in advance, paying attention to every detail, so that the memorable Maori tattoo does not lose its relevance and attractiveness even after years.
