Maori

Tattoos in this style have a long history and are named after the settlement, where they originated. According to their traditions, the tattoo demonstrates the owner's status in the tribe, his character traits, bravery and his connection with local deities. Earlier symbols were applied to the body with knives and special devices. Now it is called scarring. The absence of a tattoo was equalent to a mortal sin. The Maori culture gave importance not so much to the chosen design as to the patterns, with which it was applied. They believed that tattoos imparted wisdom, brought help in life and hunting and protected their owner from troubles. The Maori believed that any tattoo could change a person's life and attract good luck. The application was considered a sacred process of initiation. The tribes still keep the secret of preparing the paint, the special ways of applying the patterns and the choice of spots for tattoos.