Tribal Tattoo Designs: The Most Requested Tattoos
Origin
Tribal tattoo designs originated from the ancient cultures and tribes that inhabited Africa, Asia, Oceania and the Pacific Islands. The styles, purposes and methods of application of the designs varied for each culture but most were applied for purposes that did not include the visual appeal. Power, protection, identity, rank, religious dedication, rituals, nature, animal symbols, passage of rite, weddings and inclusion in society were just a few of the many purposes these tattoos held. Some of the tribes included Indian, Maori, Mozambican, Polynesian, Hawaiian and Egyptian, but the list is endless. The first body that was discovered with tribal tattoo designs was a Bronze Age man from 5000 years ago. He was found frozen in an Italian glacier with his body covered in designs of mythical creatures. Egyptian mummies were also discovered with their own tribal tattoo designs covering their bodies. Tribal tattoos were often applied through a method involving a comb with needles that were made from bone. The needles were dipped into the ink and then placed against the specific body part. It was then tapped so that the skin was pierced and the ink, injected. The name tattoo actually comes from this sound of tapping which was called “tatau” by the Polynesians.
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Appearance in the Western World
The first major introduction of tribal tattoo designs to the western world was given by scientists who drew picture books in the 18th and 19th centuries that depicted the tattoo designs of the Maori tribes of New Zealand and the cultures of the Marquesas Islands. These books became popular in Europe and were passed around rapidly. But the turning point for the modernization of the designs, was when LA tattoo artist, Leo Zuleta borrowed a notebook that contained these designs and began using it on members of LA rock bands of the 90’s. He combined the tribal tattoo designs with his own modern styles and his work became known as neo tribal or pseudo tribal art. This fusion of modern aesthetics with ancient symbolisms became a worldwide phenomenon and the tattoos became some of the most sought after in the world. Because of the huge amount of tribes and cultures included in the origins of the tattoos, today the amount of tribal tattoo designs and symbols is endless and they make up one third of all tattoos worn by people.
Why are Tribal Tattoo Designs So Popular?
Unlike many tattoos that are used to depict a specific object or symbol, many tribal tattoo designs are more concerned with the “feel” that is evoked. This is evident through the use of simple black and skin coloured tones that portray jagged, rough symmetrical shapes. The aggressive texture is emphasized, rather than the visual appearance. However, other tribal tattoo designs are applied solely because of their aesthetic appeal on a particular part of the body. The recognizable feature of the thick sharp edges moving around the body like rose thorns, creates a dramatic and interesting appearance that seems to appeal to many people. The historical and symbolic nature adds a mystery and meaning to the designs that creates a connection to the past and the present. People find that certain symbols represent certain aspects of their lives today. Some popular tribal tattoo designs include the rose, sun, Hawaiian flower, Polynesian and Native American.