The Tribal designs we see today come from various Polynesian, Celtic, Borneo, even Native American influences, plus many many more island cultures. Traditionally these were hand poked into the skin and in some native societies it’s a “Coming of Age” rite. The designs the person was given allowed them to reach a higher sense of self as well achieve a closeness with their deity or whatever religious being they’re into. The tattoo in the picture has a Polynesian feel to it and looks like a piece of armor for this man’s chest and shoulder so he can go out and do battle with whatever life throws. Great piece to have worked on!
