Research Papaer : The Study on Tattoo of the Maori

Lee, Hyun Joo

Journal of the Korean Society of Cosmetology 2007;13(3):1247-1257.

마오리족의 타투(tattoo) 연구

이현주

Research Papaer : The Study on Tattoo of the Maori

Abstract

Polynesian tattoo, which we call ``the masterpiece of tattoo art``, is said to have artistic values in terms of its distinctive design and exquisite techniques. In particular, ``moko``, the tattoo of the Maori which was one of the tribes of the New Zealand, is artistically outstanding because of its distinguished spiral patterns which have had an impact on the style of Art till today. This study examined artistic attributes of the tattoo of the Maori, based on the belief that it makes a genre of Art, developing itself within its specific culture and life. Tattooing was a privilege of aristocrats and free men under the caste system of the Maori. Men tattooed on their body and face, while women on restricted area around lips. However, slaves were not allowed to any tattooing. For Maori, ``moko`` was an emblem of social position and a mark of honor. Especially, ``moko`` on face was viewed as the most important thing. As an ornament for face, ``moko`` was a symbol of identity, similarly used like European coat of arms. For ``moko,`` the Maori wetted bones, shells, or metal chisels with coloring, and carved patterns by wooden bats. This method was quite similar to ways of making a wooden sculpture, and the patterns on the skins were made by tools like sculpture chisels. The majority of Maori tattoo had elaborate spiral patterns, none of which were same, though. To the Maori, the art of tattoo was intimately related to the form of artistic expression.

Key Words: Tattoo, Moko, Maori Art, Polynesian, Spiral, Tribe