Page 7 - Fifty-fifty July 2021

Samoa
Tattooing has formed a part of Samoan cultural traditions for
thousands of years. The history of tattooing in Samoa is a great
example of how tattoos can form an integral part of social culture. It is
even believed that the modern-day English word ‘tattoo’ may have
originated from the Samoan word for tattoo ‘tatau’.

The tradition of giving and receiving tattoos by hand in Samoa has
been practiced for more than two thousand years. The techniques and
tools used for this traditional practice have hardly changed during this
time either. The skill is taught and passed down from father to son.

The tool used to give the tattoos is handmade, from turtle shell and
boar’s teeth. The process of receiving traditional tattoos takes many
weeks to complete. Tattooing ceremonies are generally held to mark a
younger chief’s ascension to a leadership role within society.

Once complete, the tattoos represent and celebrate dedication to the
culture and to great endurance. These tattoos are extremely painful to
receive and the procedure comes with a great risk of infection.
Unfortunately, those who are unable to endure the pain can be
branded with the mark of shame on their skin forever.

Tattoos now
Tattoos are an inherent part of some cultures. In the Western world, sailors were and probably are, frequently
tattooed. It has taken time for decorative ink to become socially acceptable. It’s really only in the last fifty years that
tattoos have become popular and mainstream in some circles.

The evidence of tattooing in ancient civilizations is fascinating. Tattoos from these past civilizations tended to have
links to medical healing, as opposed to the “cosmetic” value that they have today. There is still so much to be found
out about tattoos throughout history.

It will be interesting to hear about the art and culture of Māori tattooing at our meeting ‘Tā Moko: Our Treasure’ on
Friday, 9 July.

From: https://authoritytattoo.com/history-of-tattoos/

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