Ta Moko
The Art of Maori Tattoo
Book by D.R. Simmons, Reed Publishing, 2007, soft cover, 183pp

In this lavishly illustrated study of male and female moko ( tatoo), the author draws on the records, journals and sketches of early European observers in New Zealand - explorers such as Captain James Cook, de Surville and du Fresne, and later traders and missionaries.  He relies, too, on visual sources, including the work of artists such as Earle, Angas, Robley, Lindauer and Goldie, to document the increasing standardisation, and eventual decline and disappearance of male moko in the nineteenth century.  Happily, Ta Moko has made a resurgence in the late 20th century.

This really is a richly illustrated tattoo book.  Almost every page is illustrated with old photos, drawings and diagrams of Maori tattoos.  Of great importance to anyone contemplating having a Maori design tattooed on them is the section on Design Fields and Motifs.  This section of the book details the patterns used on the face and body.  Throughout the rest of the book, there are explanations of the relevance of designs and their placement.  The designs signify the social standing of the person, their father's rank, tribal affiliations, occupation, and their line of descent.

Ta Moko is arguably the best book on Maori Tattooing for the tattooist or anyone contemplating getting a Maori style tattoo, if only to ensure the authenticity of the design.  It is also a fascinating book for anyone to read, especially those interested in the history of design.