Oceania

Ma'o

Shark |March 26, 2025
by: GiErre

Design Story

This small but meaningful Polynesian shark tattoo was prepared for Amy, to match a similar turtle tattoo she had on her right foot.

The frigate bird on the front symbolizes direction, setting a goal and going for it, with tenacity, determination, and adaptability (shark teeth, hammerhead shark, and octopus tentacle) to reach a new beginning (the koru) and stability (the mountains) together with family (flax leaves for family unity).

Tiki eye and hand bring protection along the voyage, the fish hook is a symbol of prosperity, and the frangipani flower of femininity.

The colored image below shows the main elements within the tattoo:
Small Polynesian shark tattoo for the foot

Symbols/Meanings included:


Request Your Custom Tattoo

Community Comments

0 / 2000

No comments yet... be the first!


Flash Offer • 2x1 Bundle

Unlock the Complete Language of Symbols

Download the official PDF Handbooks instantly. Learn the precise meanings, cultural relevance, and traditional layouts behind Polynesian tribal tattoo symbols to design or decode your next custom artwork.

.