Matai Collection

Tattooist, Samoa
TATTOOING IN SAMOA A Matai (= tattooer) works on a young man : he does about 40 cm2 in an hours session, continued at intervals till the operation is completed

DDE-90026699
New Zealand, Otago, Catlins. Views along Matai Falls walking track in Table Hill Scenic Reserve. Date: 10/07/2007

DDE-90026700
New Zealand, Otago, Catlins. Native forest along Matai Falls walking track in Table Hill Scenic Reserve. Date: 10/07/2007

DDE-90026698
New Zealand, Otago, Catlins. Views along Matai Falls walking track in Table Hill Scenic Reserve. Date: 10/07/2007

DDE-90026697
New Zealand, Otago, Catlins. Native forest along Matai Falls walking track in Table Hill Scenic Reserve. Date: 10/07/2007

DDE-90026501
Horseshoe Falls, Matai Falls, Catlins, South Otago, South Island, New Zealand Date: 20/05/2008

DDE-90026497
Matai Falls, Catlins, South Otago, South Island, New Zealand Date: 20/05/2008

DDE-90026496
Matai Falls, Catlins, South Otago, South Island, New Zealand Date: 20/05/2008

Talolo, wearing the ceremonial dress of a manaia, c. 1895 (b / w photo)
618967 Talolo, wearing the ceremonial dress of a manaia, c.1895 (b/w photo) by Andrew, Thomas (1855-1939); Private Collection; (add.info.: Talolo (dates unknown) was the son of a matai in Vaimoso

French Polynesia - Leeward Islands and Tahiti
The Leeward Islands (Iles Sous-le-vent) and Tahiti - French Pacific Colonial territories. Inset illustration of Tahaa, Raiatea and Papeete (the capital of French Polynesia on Tahiti). Date: circa 1906

Tattooing Day, Samoa
TATTOOING DAY IN SAMOA A Matai (= tattooer) works on a young man : he does about 40 cm2 in an hours session, continued at intervals till the operation is completed

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Witness the sacred art of matai tattooing in Samoa, as a skilled tattooist applies intricate designs to a nobleman, adorned in traditional ceremonial attire (DDE-90026699, DDE-90026700). This ancient practice, deeply rooted in Samoan culture, was once a symbol of social status and rank. The designs (DDE-90026698, DDE-90026697) tell stories of the wearer's genealogy, achievements, and personal traits. In this black and white photograph from around 1895 (Talolo), the tattooed man stands proudly, reflecting the rich heritage of the Leeward Islands and Tahiti (French Polynesia). The tattooing day was a communal event, filled with music, dance, and feasting (DDE-90026501, DDE-90026497, DDE-90026496). This timeless tradition continues to be celebrated and passed down through generations, preserving the unique identity and history of the Samoan people.