Maori Tattoos
The name “Maori tattoo” comes from the people of Maori in New Zealand. In New Zealand, a popular location for Maori tattoos is on the face. In North America, these tattoos are commonly found on the arm. If you like tribal tattoos, continue reading on for a brief look at the history of these popular designs.
Maori tattoos are different from traditional tattoos because they were carved into the skin with a chisel. In the Maori language, these tattoos are known as “ta moko.” Ta moko literally describes the process of tattooing; it means to tap or to strike.
For centuries, Maori women have been tattooed on the lips, chin, neck, or back. Maori men have been tattooed on the buttocks, face, and legs. Throughout history, Maori tattoos have been part of a long-standing ritual. Tattooing would usually begin around adolescence and it was used to highlight important events. It is believed that those without tribal Maori tattoos were worthless and without status.
As previously stated, Maori tattoos were done via chisel. This painful process was part of the reputation and symbolism. Among the Maori people, these tattoos represent status, courage, and strength. Tattooing was often done during a ritual with music. Fasting was also common; in fact, it was a necessity because the face would often swell after this painful, yet all important process.
Maori tattooing became less popular after the arrival of European settlers. Most men stopped getting Maori tattoos in the middle of the 19thth century. Around the 1990s, century. The women soon followed, as most stop getting tattoos in the 20Maori tattoos and their popularity saw a revival of sorts. Not only have the designs come back, but the use of the chisel too. Rest assure though, if you want a Maori tattoo, modern equipment is used in the West so the process will not be as time consuming or painful.
Today, Maori tattoos make popular arm tattoos and sleeve tattoos. However, there is some controversy that surrounds these designs. A Maori tattoo was originally used as a form of personal identification. For that reason, the copying of a Maori tattoo is often looked at as the stealing of an identity. You must keep in this in mind, because not all tattoo artists are willing to replicate Maori tattoos.
