The term tribal tattoo has its origins in Maori and Polynesian tribal culture where warriors would show status and bravery with a facial design or Moko. Thought to have originated in Fiji and Samoa several thousand years ago, they have been worn as symbols of rank, authority and virility throughout the many islands of Polynesia and the Pacific Ocean. These traditional designs were steeped in meaning based on area of the body and shapes used. Today the heavy black, aggressive lines of the traditional tribal tattoo have been taken to stylized extremes but whilst a Maori warrior wouldn't be seen dead with an intricate pattern with a delicate floral center piece the inspiration comes from his heritage.
