Samoan Tattoos Essay

Samoan tattoos – or tatau – are part of a rich historical tradition, but they have also become popular in recent years as a tattoo choice for people from different cultures all over the world. These geometric designs carry symbolic meaning for the Samoan people, and can be used to visually represent values of personal significance.

History and Significance of Samoan Tattoos

In Samoan culture, the pe’a – or the traditional male tattoo – is both representative of tribal standing and a way to represent values of cultural importance. Boys over the age of 14 were given their tattoos as a way to ritualize the transition to manhood as their bodies were deemed to be fully developed.

Female Samoan tattoos are also common within the tradition, although these are
It also represents how the process of tattooing came to the island from elsewhere. Quadrangular figures: Samoan tattoos are unique in terms of Polynesian traditions in that the geometric patterns are created through angles and line-based figures as opposed to using round or circular lines. House (Fale): Often the house is used to represent family lineage and ancestry within the community. Kava Bowl: These are often used to denote hospitality and community, as drinking kava is important in many ceremonies. Nature: Many nature symbols are often seen in Samoan tattoos, particularly those related to oceanic life. Shells, waves, and fish are quite common, as are different styles of bird.

Best Placements

Samoan tattoos are excellent choices for a sleeve on the arm, as they were traditionally worn on the lower back and legs down to the knee in a dense geometric pattern. Therefore, these are also excellent tribal designs for large pieces on the back, chest, or