maori tattoo

Maori tattoo designs have become almost forgotten as a result of the murderous practices of early European colonists in New Zealand. The beautiful and intricate designs which were engraved on Maori faces led to collectors and business men acquiring the heads of deceased Maoris for their value as collectors items. Unfortunately many of the “deceased” Maoris were in fact murdered to obtain their heads.

Today there is a revival of interest in these ancient and interesting Maori tattoo designs.The Maoris engraved these designs on their faces for cultural reasons. The designs are now desired by artists and tattoo designers for their richness and beauty. Designs on women,s faces projectclick hereed beauty and those of the male warriors denoted strength and courage. Every element of the design reflects the person, his/her way of life, family and ideologies. They are very meaningful to the wearer and those who look at them. There is much more to the tattoo than simply a design. It reflects the kind of person he or she is. No two people would have exactly the same design. The name for the Maori tattoo is Ta Moko. They were not simply inked into the skin, but were in fact chiseled deeply.