Polynesian tattooing

The word tattoo comes from the Tahitian word ‘tatau’. Legend has it that the very first tattoos were etched into the skin of the god T’a’aroa, the great creator. His two sons, Matamata and Tū Ra’i Pō then transmitted the art of tattooing to man and became the protective divinities of tattooing.

Historically, the origins of Polynesian tattooing go back to the first waves of migrations from Southeast Asia in about 200 years BC. The art spread everywhere throughout the Polynesian triangle except in the Gambier and Tuamotu Islands. The designs of Marquesan tattoos are world famous and are particularly complex and detailed.

In pre-European Polynesian society, tattooing played a fundamental role as a social marker and sacred symbol. It was widespread and had many social significations. It wasn’t only a sign of belonging to a particular tribe and territory, it also defined the social rank of the wearer. Tattoos were also linked to important rituals, such as the passage from puberty to adulthood and marriage.

As well as its social aspect, tattooing also had a sacred dimension, rooted in Polynesian culture. Tattoos were considered as a gift from the gods that bestowed a supernatural power on the wearer. Certain designs were specially conceived to protect the wearer and preserve his Mana. They represented prestige and the divine spirit that guaranteed good health, well-being and fertility, while also offering protection from harm.

Unlike the modern fashion of body art, traditional Polynesian tattoos were a powerful means of communication and expression in traditional ma’ohi society.

Their social importance was sacred. Tattoos were an essential element of a Polynesian’s identity, conveying the history, culture and values of the ancient civilization to which he belonged.