The first documented discoveries of the Maori's, who reside in New Zealand, art (Ta Moko) was reported by traveler Captain James Cook in 1769. The tattoo designs themselves are called Moko and the process is known as Ta Moko. The process consists of using chisels, most made of bone, to etch the design into the skin. Unlike the smooth texture the puncture method (used today) leaves on the skin, chiseling left a rough grove in the recipients skin. Along with this two kinds of ink were generally used. One ink involved the mixture of vegetables with a caterpillar and the other (black ink) was made from burned wood.
The positioning of the tattoos on the face of the man represents/shows the different positions or achievements within their lives. The designs were also used as signatures and the tattooed face and body of a man were seen fierce in battle and appealing to women. Men's tattoos are more elaborate than women's; women were generally tattooed on the lips, chin, and nostrils, but in some cases the back and or neck might be embellished. However, the women are never decorated as elaborate as the men of the Maori.
No comments:
Post a Comment