Maori Tattoos

As a cultural practice tattooing (tā moko) was brought by the Māori from their Eastern Polynesian homeland, and the implements and methods employed were similar to those used in other parts of Polynesia.

It is thought that in traditional society many or most high-ranking persons were tattooed, and those who went without tattoos were seen as persons of lower social status. The receiving of tattoos constituted an important milestone on a person's journey to maturity and was accompanied by many rites and rituals. In both men and women, the patterns used were highly significant of a person's rank, skills, knowledge, personal life history, tribal affiliations and genealogy. Apart from signalling status and rank, another reason for the practice in traditional times was to make a person more attractive to the opposite sex.

Aside from the history lesson contained therein, it shows that people still get tattooed for similar reasons, especially for personal life history and for attracting a mate. Whilst here at Eternal Images, we don't use bone chisels or similair, we still try to get your Tattoo to carry off its' intended meaning to you.

Please find in the Galleries a selection of Maori style and Maori influenced Tattoos done here at Eternal Images:

Remember, booking is always advisable - for tattoo work and consultations.