tattoo

Maori tattoo designs have become almost forgotten as a result of the murderous practices of early European colonists in New Zealand. The beautiful and intricate designs which were engraved on Maori faces led to collectors and business men acquiring the heads of deceased Maoris for their value as collectors items. Unfortunately many of the “deceased” Maoris were in fact murdered to obtain their heads.

Today there is a revival of interest in these ancient and interesting Maori tattoo designs.The Maoris engraved these designs on their faces for cultural reasons. The designs are now desired by artists and tattoo designers for their richness and beauty. Designs on women,s faces projected beauty and those of the male warriors denoted strength and courage. Every element of the design reflects the person, his/her way of life, family and ideologies. They are very meaningful to the wearer and those who look at them. There is much more to the tattoo than simply a design. It reflects the kind of person he or she is. No two people would have exactly the same design. The name for the Maori tattoo is Ta Moko. They were not simply inked into the skin, but were in fact chiseled deeply.

Modern tattoo wearers are more likely to have them simply inked in the normal way, using the traditional meaningful Maori designs. They will also be on the arms or body rather than the face. The Maori women had tattoos on their lips, chin and nose whilst the men would cover their whole face with tattoos. Some Maoris would also have full body tattoos.

These days the tattoos are mostly on the arms, back, legs and chest. The revival of these old Maori designs is due to appreciation of the beauty of the designs, as well as to show respect for the old Maori culture, which was expressed through tattoos. The Maori tattoos were unique and creative designs which depicted beauty, courage and worthiness of the wearer. Bringing back the Ta Moko tattoo designs is a way of ensuring that this culture will not be forgotten and can in fact be a source of inspiration.