Maori tattoos, also called moko, are traditional tattoos of the Maori, a Polynesian people who live in New Zealand. They are made using a tool called uhi, which is a point of wood or stone.
The process of making Maori tattoos is long and painful. It begins by tracing the pattern on the skin using a pencil or stick. Once the design is drawn, the tattoo artist uses the uhi to inject the ink under the skin.
The ink used for Maori tattoos is usually made from charcoal, fruit juice, or other natural substances.
Maori tattoos have important meaning to Maori culture. They are a symbol of cultural identity, strength, courage and success.
Maori tattoos are usually done on the face, body and arms. The patterns are generally inspired by nature, culture or religion. They can represent animals, plants, religious symbols or important events in the life of the tattooed person.
Find more information on the History of Maori tattooing here:
https://www.nouvellezelandeservices.com/blog-nzs/2017/8/2/le-ta-moko-histoire-du-tatouage-maori
