Maori moko re-created

Press, 30 September 1977, Page 11

Maori moko re-created

Television Ono make-up experts learned a great deal about the “moko,” or facial tattoos of the Maori through the production of “The Governor.” The tattoos, were an indication of social standing. Various lines carved deep into the flesh indicated if a man was a warrior, if he was an orator, how much “mana” he had. As the skills of the person increased, so his “moko” developed and new lines were added. The “moko” was a man’s signature, no two were the same.

On the thighs too. patterns were carved to indicate the fighting man. Known as a raparapa the lines extended from the

knees, up the thighs and across the buttocks (reminiscent if seen from a distance, of a pair of Bermuda shorts), and were representative of the brave warrior. Also found on women, the “moko” was considered beautiful as it enhanced the china and gave the lips a bluish tint. Here too, it was indication of standing in the hierarchy.

The moko artists researched old photographs and paintings of characters with the moko (people like Rewi Maniapoto for instance) and detailed the patterns by tracing them on paper. They transferred the design to an actor’s face simulating the colours with a number of different coloured felt pens.