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Maori Tattoo Photo #207

Ornamental maori tattoo featuring delicate execution on the ribs
Maori tattoo — Photo 7 of 50

Maori body art, known as Ta Moko, is one of the oldest and most meaningful forms of permanent marking in the world. Unlike decorative ink chosen from a flash sheet, traditional Moko tells the story of a person's ancestry, social standing, and life achievements through a precise visual language of curves, spirals, and symmetry.

Inspired by jewelry, architecture, and textile patterns, ornamental tattoos create intricate, decorative compositions on the skin. Precision and symmetry are key, giving these pieces an almost meditative quality.

The ribcage offers a private placement that only shows when the wearer chooses. Its curved surface adds dimension to designs, though the area is known for being one of the more sensitive spots to tattoo.