This classic of ethnography describes Maori tattooing (moko), which communicates the bearer's genealogy, tribal affiliation, and spirituality. This definitive study relates how moko first became known to Europeans and discusses the distinctions between men and women's moko, patterns and designs, and moko in legend and song. Features 180 black-and-white illustrations.
Here's a sample of other books in this Dover category
The History of Tattooing by Wilfrid Dyson Hambly This 1925 survey offers one of the most complete histories of world tattoo practices. It features 80 images from vanished cultures and discusses their significance in terms of religious beliefs and social status.
Tattooing in the Marquesas by Willowdean Chatterson Handy Definitive source on intricate tattoos of Polynesia's Marquesas Islands offers a rare glimpse of a vanished art. Its 38 plates of black-and-white drawings and photographs provide an unusually complete and intimate record.
Tattoo: Secrets of a Strange Art by Albert Parry This pioneering 1933 survey approaches body art from a variety of angles, including artistic, semiotic, psychological, sociological, and cultural perspectives. It examines overt and subliminal messages of romance, patriotism, and religious fervor. 27 illustrations.
Asian Tattoo Flash CD-ROM and Book by Alan Weller Fire-breathing dragons. Elegant floral bands. Exquisitely detailed Mehndi designs. This collection of 125 beautiful Asian images reflects centuries of art and culture. Includes three versions of each tattoo — in black-and-white outline, solid drawing, and full color.
Tattoo Art by Alan Weller How far will people go to decorate their bodies? This dazzling array of tattoos provides 200 high-quality illustrations that showcase the ornamental art form and represent authentic styles — from Japanese and Polynesian to Tribal and Mehndi.
Classic Tattoo Designs CD-ROM and Book by Eric Gottesman Total of 230 authentic tattoo designs from the 1920s to the 1960s, from pierced hearts and pretty girls to crossed swords and butterflies. 115 designs in both full color and black-and-white.
The Explorations of Captain James Cook in the Pacific by Capt. James Cook, Grenfell Price Cook's three great voyages into the uncharted Pacific, told in his own words. Travel classic recounts exploration of the eastern coastline of Australia, mapping of New Zealand, discovery of Hawaiian Islands, much more.
