Back manta

Design Story

This Polynesian tattoo of a manta was designed to fit the upper back and it was prepared for Thomas who requested the composing elements to be disguised within the general shape.

Most of the design is made of elements related to the ocean, designed not to stand out from the whole and being identifiable only upon closer look.

There are three turtles centrally, with a bigger one in the middle symbolizing family (a Marquesan cross in it and braids around it represent the harmony found in the union of the family).
Two smaller turtles on its sides represent his children, protected by the central one and with their initials on the shell.

A hammerhead shark shapes the tail of the manta with an enata in it to symbolize the protector, supporting family with tenacity.

On the tips of the wings there are two tiki protecting family from all directions and we included a lizard for good luck and health, and a dolphin for happiness and play.

Other elements are two chasing birds for help granted to the loved ones, fish and fish hook for prosperity, mountains for stability, and a twist for eternal union.

The colored image below shows the individual elements disguised within the manta: