Tattoos. We all know about them, some
of us – more and more, in fact – have them. But permanently inking one’s skin
is a tradition that has developed in many different societies, with all sorts
of meanings.
In New Zealand, the indigenous Maori people decorated their skin with intricate black-and-white design. Women would traditionally tattoo their chink with “moko kauae”, chin tattoos, right under their lower lip. Moko kauae tattoos were not only for beauty – they were considered sacred and indicated the wearer’s tribe, status, and personal story.
But unfortunately, these old traditions have slowly disappeared since the arrival of European settlers to New Zealand. In Europe, tattoos were associated with the lower class and considered ugly, so Maori people were discouraged from wearing them.
Today, however, tattoos are once again considered a form of art and are more and more accepted by the general population. And with “regular” tattoos, the moko kauae is also making a comeback.
Today, women of Maori descend once
again decorate their chins with the moko kauae their ancestors wore proudly. Some
paint it over their skin occasionally, and some get a permanent tattoo. All of
them look beautiful and inspiring with their gorgeous moko kauae.
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