Samoan tattoos, or tatau, are a form of body art that have been practiced by the Samoan people for centuries. A traditional Samoan tattoo is applied by a tattoo artist in a ritualistic process that involves tapping a special bone or sharpened tool into the skin. This process creates intricate, abstract designs that are unique to the Samoan culture. Samoan tattoos typically feature symbols of tribal ancestry, spiritual devotion, and cultural pride.