MUNDURUCU
Tattooing has long held an important place in Marquesan life. Skilled specialists, known as tuhuna, create elaborate designs that express identity, social standing and achievement. Historical accounts describe both men and women with tattoos, while the wealthiest and most powerful can afford particularly extensive work.
Chiefs, priests and warriors wear designs associated with their standing. Early descriptions mention the Mata Komoe as a mark of honour for exceptionally brave warriors. These markings can make an important person recognisable even after death: accounts of warfare describe victors examining fallen enemies and keeping the heads of prominent opponents as trophies.