Samoan traditional tattoo, or "tatau," is a form of body art that has been practiced in Samoa for thousands of years. The art of tatau is deeply rooted in Samoan culture and history, and is considered a rite of passage for many Samoans.
Samoan men's tatau "pe'a"
Traditionally, tatau was only performed on men in Samoan culture. The process of receiving a tatau was seen as a rite of passage into manhood, and was often accompanied by traditional ceremonies and rituals.
The designs of tatau for men are typically more elaborate and cover a larger portion of the body compared to those for women. The tattoo would start at the waist and continue down to the knees, covering the back and legs. The designs are inspired by natural elements, such as ocean waves, fish scales, and animals, and often incorporate symbols of strength and courage.
The Samoan word for the traditional tattoo for men is "pe'a," and it holds a significant cultural and spiritual meaning for Samoan people. The pe'a is seen as a symbol of Samoan identity, and is deeply rooted in the country's cultural heritage.
The process of receiving a pe'a for men is long and painful, and requires a significant amount of dedication and endurance. The tattooing is typically done in stages, with each session lasting several hours, and sometimes taking several weeks or even months to complete.
During the tattooing process, the recipient is expected to remain still and endure the pain without showing any signs of discomfort. This is seen as a demonstration of strength and endurance, and is an important part of the rite of passage into manhood.
Today, while the process of receiving a pe'a for men has become more modernized, the cultural and spiritual significance of the practice remains deeply rooted in Samoan culture. Many Samoans still consider it a symbol of strength, courage, and status, and the process is often accompanied by traditional ceremonies and rituals to honor and celebrate the recipient's achievement.
Samoan women's tatau "malu"
While traditional Samoan tattoos, or tatau, were historically reserved for men, the practice has evolved to become more inclusive in recent years, with many women also embracing the tradition. The traditional Samoan tattoo for women is known as the "malu," which covers the thighs and is typically smaller and less extensive than the "pe'a" full-body tattoo worn by men.
The designs of the malu are inspired by natural elements such as flowers, shells, and birds, and often carry cultural and spiritual significance. The process of receiving a malu is similar to that of the pe'a, although the designs are typically less time-consuming to complete. Despite this, the endurance and pain required during the process remains an important aspect of the cultural tradition.
In Samoa, receiving a malu is considered a display of strength and courage and is seen as a symbol of femininity and beauty. In recent years, more women in Samoa and around the world have embraced the tradition as a way to connect with their cultural heritage and identity.
It's important to understand that tatau is not just a form of body art, but a deeply spiritual and cultural practice with significant meaning for Samoan people. While the aesthetic value of tatau can be appreciated, it's essential to respect the cultural significance of the practice and the traditions that accompany it.
Tatau designs
Tatau designs in Samoa are often based on traditional motifs and symbols that hold deep cultural and spiritual significance. These motifs are typically geometric in nature, featuring a variety of lines, dots, and shapes that are used to create intricate and meaningful designs.
One of the most common motifs used in tatau designs is the "pe'a," which is a full-body tattoo that covers the chest, stomach, back, and legs. The pe'a is typically reserved for men and is considered a rite of passage, symbolizing a man's strength, courage, and status within the community.
Other common motifs used in tatau designs include the "malu," which is a tattoo that covers the thighs and is typically reserved for women. The malu symbolizes a woman's connection to her ancestors and her role as a caretaker and protector within her family.
Other popular motifs used in tatau designs include the "tanoa," which represents a Samoan ceremonial bowl, and the "sulu'ape," which is the name of the traditional tool used in the tatau process.
In addition to these traditional motifs, modern tatau designs may also incorporate elements of personal meaning or significance, such as a person's name or important life events.
Overall, tatau designs are highly individualized and meaningful, with each design reflecting a person's unique story, experiences, and connection to Samoan culture and traditions.
Traditional method of tatau "au"
The traditional method of tatau in Samoa involves using a tool called a "au" which is a comb-like instrument made from boar's teeth or bone, attached to a wooden handle. The teeth or bone are sharpened to create small, sharp points that can be used to puncture the skin.
The artist dips the teeth of the "au" into a mixture of ink made from burnt coconut shells and water, and then taps the instrument onto the skin, creating small puncture wounds. The process is repeated thousands of times, with each puncture representing a small dot in the overall design.
This method is not only time-consuming, but also incredibly painful, and requires a high level of skill and expertise on the part of the artist. The traditional process can take weeks or even months to complete, with each session lasting several hours.
Despite the pain and time commitment required, the traditional method of tatau is still highly respected and valued in Samoan culture, and many people still prefer it over modern techniques that use tattoo machines.
It's important to note that the traditional method of tatau should only be performed by a trained and experienced Samoan tattoo artist, as the process requires a deep understanding of cultural traditions and spiritual significance.
The Samoan tatau is not just a traditional form of body art but also a significant cultural practice that has been passed down through generations. The tatau is a symbol of pride, strength, and identity for the Samoan people. It is not just about the physical act of getting inked but also the spiritual and emotional journey that one undergoes during the process. The tatau has survived colonialism and cultural assimilation and continues to thrive in modern times, thanks to the efforts of Samoan tattoo artists and cultural activists who have kept this ancient art alive. It is an honor and a privilege to receive a tatau, and those who do so are forever connected to the rich history and cultural heritage of Samoa.