Vairau

Design Story

This Polynesian tattoo, which extends from the shoulder onto the shoulder blade, integrates a previously prepared armband for Raffaele.

The flax leaves are central and protected by the warrior tiki, who fights for his family and his community (the row of people) in every challenge and adversity (the path of Kamehameha), protected by the all-seeing eye that keeps enemies away.

The spearheads, octopus tentacles, and shark teeth are symbols of strength, adaptability, and tenacity, while the manulua is a symbol of union and prosperity, as are the coconut leaves and the fish hook.

The sun surrounds the warrior as a symbol of success and rebirth (the koru and the row of birds).

The gecko represents luck and protection, and the hammerhead shark symbolizes tenacity and determination.

A curiosity: the Tahitian word vairau refers to a warrior who survived many battles.

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