Insanely detailed tattoos were used to express status, identity, personality, and even sexual maturity.
Different shapes would be used together to create unique patterns and present a certain message.
In traditional Polynesian tattooing, an image of the sun could mean leadership, wealth, or rebirth. Certain shapes or symbols can be used to represent something specific or something broader.
This style of tattoo is typically done with lots of shading, and only in solid black. And these sizable and intricate tattoos weren’t done with an electric needle gun, like modern tattoos.
An original Polynesian style tattoo was given by dipping the tattooing tool into black ink and administering the tattoo dot by dot. This was a long and grueling process, as you’d probably imagine. The tool itself was commonly something sharp made from turtle shells, seashells, or rocks.
Polynesian style tattoos are traditionally pretty large, so they’re most commonly seen in areas that facilitate larger pieces of art. Most people choose to place their Polynesian tattoo on their arm, shoulder, back, or chest.
From traditional designs and patterns to your own custom style tailored to what you plan to say with your tattoo, Polynesian tattoos are not a style with limited places to go. Many people use a Polynesian style tattoo as a way to tell a personal story or to honor a part of their lives.
Whatever the message you want to get across, a Polynesian tattoo is a way of doing so that will be unique to you.
Most popular Polynesian tattoo design ideas
Different Polynesian designs to consider: 1. Peony and Plum Blossom: This elegant women’s Polynesian tattoo design features two of the most iconic symbols in Polynesian culture: the peony and the plum blossom. The peony symbolizes beauty, prosperity, and good fortune while the plum blossom represents resilience and strength. Together, these flowers make a beautiful combination that can be used to express your innermost feelings.
2. Geometric Tribal Design: This traditional Polynesian tattoo design uses geometric shapes to create a bold statement of identity and power. From simple lines to intricate patterns, this style is perfect for those who want their ink to make a lasting impression without being too busy or complicated.
3. Lotus Flower: A lotus flower is a popular choice for many women looking for a meaningful Polynesian tattoo design with spiritual significance. In traditional Polynesian culture, this flower represents purity, enlightenment, rebirth and divine grace – making it an ideal choice if you’re looking for something special to express your beliefs or values in life.
4. Maori Sea Turtle Design: The sea turtle is an important symbol in Maori culture because it embodies qualities like strength, wealth and wisdom – all of which are highly revered within Polynesian cultures overall. As such, it makes for an excellent choice when considering tattoos for women as its meaning can easily be interpreted as empowerment or protection from harm’s way!
5. Hawaiian Tribal Shark Tattoo: Sharks have long been considered powerful symbols of strength by many cultures around the world including Hawaii’s own native population where they are seen as protectors from evil spirits or negative energies that might come into one’s life path uninvitedly! If you’re looking to make a strong statement with your body art then consider getting yourself a shark tattoo done in traditional Hawaiian tribal style!
6. Marquesan Cross Tattoo: The Marquesan cross has become increasingly popular lately due its unique shape which consists of four curved arms that meet at right angles. Together, these elements form what looks like an infinity sign. For any woman who wants something special but still wants their ink to look subtle, this design makes for a wonderful tattoo.
7. Sun and Moon Combination: A sun and moon combination tattoo will represent both day/light (sun) and night/dark (moon). This makes them perfect for expressing harmony between seemingly contrasting elements in life such as joy and sorrow, pain and pleasure and so on. Such designs often use complimentary colors like red and blue or even black and white depending on your preference.
8. Koru Design : Koru means “loop” or “coil” in Maori language, which is why this Polynesian style often features circles connected together with swirls. Combined, these designs resemble fern fronds found throughout New Zealand landscape. Many women view the design as representing new beginnings, growth, revival, and renewal. The design can also be used as a reminder about staying true to one’s self no matter what life throws our way.
Polynesian tattoo meanings and symbolism:
What do Polynesian themed designs mean and symbolize?: The Polynesian culture is one of the oldest and most culturally rich cultures in the world. It is a culture that has been passed down through generations, with each generation adding their own unique symbols and meanings to it. One of the most iconic symbols of Polynesian culture are tattoos. For centuries, Polynesians have used tattoos as a form of expression and identity, communicating stories and beliefs across generations. Symbolic tattoo designs have been popular for many years as they can be used to represent feelings, beliefs, or personal experiences in a powerful way.
Tattoos were traditionally given to mark important milestones such as reaching adulthood or becoming part of a tribe. They could also signify authority within tribes or be used to identify an individual’s rank within their community. As time went on, more symbolic designs began to emerge from the tradition of body art in Polynesia. Geometric patterns such as circles and spirals were often seen alongside representations of animals like sharks or turtles – often regarded as sacred creatures throughout many Pacific Islands – along with floral elements like hibiscus flowers which symbolize beauty and femininity in traditional symbolism.
The true power behind female Polynesian tattoo designs rest not only in theoir unique visual impact but also their deeper meaning within this ancient culture’s spirituality and mythology. Many symbols used by modern-day tattoo artists are based on traditional islander legends about gods, goddesses, spirits, natural phenomena. This includes designs such as waves crashing on shorelines or volcanoes erupting from beneath the sea. These stories were often depicted through intricate artwork that combined multiple elements into meaningful narratives about life on the islands.
Symbols found in traditional Polynesian tattoos can carry different meanings depending on where they originate from. While some may be universal (such as a shark representing strength) others might vary between islands (such as what type of flower is seen as feminine). Overall, tattoos are an essential part of traditional Maori culture, where facial markings known as moko are particularly popular. While you might not be interested in a face tattoo, it may give you some inspiration behind the history. Throughout all other Pacific Island societies this form of bodily adornment carried spiritual importance beyond just aesthetics. Whether you choose an animal motif like shark teeth or complex geometric shapes, Polynesian tattoos can truly bring way more cultural significance into your life!