What do forearm band tattoos mean?
Traditionally, a solid black armband tattoo can represent the loss of a loved one. After all, black is the color of death and mourning. The shape effectively symbolizes the act of wearing the memory of the deceased on your sleeve. On a less grim note, the solid armband tattoo can also symbolize strength and luck.
What does the Polynesian turtle mean?
Turtle. The turtle or honu is another important creature throughout all Polynesian cultures and has been associated with several meanings. The first being the fact that turtles symbolise health, fertility, longevity in life, foundation, peace and rest.
What do tribal band tattoos mean?
Tribal Armband Usually, ancient tribes used armband tattoos to mark belonging to a certain tribe. These tattoos also mark important events and even battles in life show that life never ends but just continues in another form. Tribal armbands can also symbolize power, wisdom, and life in particular.
What do the Maori symbols on their tattoos mean?
Common Maori Tattoo Symbols Koru (spiral): The koru design represents new beginnings and growth with harmony. It looks like the unfurled leaf of a fern tree. Hei matau (fish hook): The fish hook tattoo symbolizes prosperity, abundance, and wealth.
Who was the first person to get a Maori tattoo?
Way back in the year 1769, the art of Maori tattoo was introduced by Eastern Polynesian people to the individuals living in New Zealand. These Eastern Polynesian people were headed by Captain James Cook.
Why was the pikorua chosen as a Maori symbol?
The pikorua, also known as the twist, is thought to be a relatively recent Maori symbol. The reason is that the early Maori people didn’t have the necessary tools to make the undercuts found in the symbol’s design.
What does the center of the forehead mean in Maori?
Center of the forehead (called a ngakaipikirau ): denotes the person’s rank Under the nose ( raurau ): represents the person’s signature and was traditionally used for the transfer of objects and properties All Maori tattoos are uniquely individual; they are often representative of traditions or specific roles within each tribal unit.