Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Maori People- face tatooing

The Maori people originated in New Zealand, and had a custom that I think is very interesting- face tattooing. The ancient Maori people would get their faces tattooed by having a knife being cut into their faces, and filling the cuts with ink. This was incredibly painful but symbolized power and other meanings. Their face tattoos are often called mokos, and the people there still do it today. Although, times have changed. Now they feel like they are being discriminated when looking for work, or even going out in public. What our culture doesn't understand is that it is an ancient and sacred art looked at as very beautiful and important in the Maori culture.

Citation: Watson, Paul. "Pride of Face in New Zealand" Los Angeles Times. 15 April 2008. 25 February 2009

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