Maue

Design Story

This Polynesian armband tattoo was prepared for Raffaele and it represents family as the central part of his life (the turtle, central for its importance, with the symbol of the couple inside the shell, and two koru on the front flippers for his children).
The flax leaves and the braid indicate family unity, the two birds chasing each other symbolize the constant support given to loved ones, and the back flippers are fish hooks for prosperity.

The warrior protects and guides the family and the people dear to him (the row of enata next to the family).
The hammerhead shark is another symbol of determination and strength, and the octopus tentacles stand for adaptability and tenacity in facing every difficulty (the path of Kamehameha in the past).

Two enata with a star next to the turtle represent the parents, who gave him stability (the mountains at the top) and teachings (the stepping stones at the bottom) until he found his own path.

The lizard and the tiki on the sides are symbols of protection.

The colored image below helps identify the main elements within the tattoo: