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Design Story

Family is central (the turtle and the flax leaves at the base) in this Polynesian half sleeve tattoo prepared for Steve, with his daughter represented by the flower of hibiscus protected by the two tiki on the sides.
She also appears on the turtle shell as taro blossoms above the couple, with ancestors represented by the kumu symbol below the couple and by pandanus flowers.
The two chasing birds symbolize support always granted, braids are for union, and coconut leaves are for prosperity.

The star between the turtle and the flax leaves symbolizes the importance of family as a fixed point that gives stability (the mountains).

Spearheads and shark teeth are around the turtle for protection and strength.

Waves are for the ocean and the row of birds symbolizes voyages.
The manulua symbol represents the union of two families and prosperity, while the stepping stones at the base symbolize achievements.

The colored legenda below helps identifying the main elements within the tattoo: