MUNDURUCU
Vanuatu, formerly known as the New Hebrides, is a group of islands in the South Pacific. In some communities, graded societies link prestige to ceremonies, resources and achievement. Powerful men can acquire influence through successive grades rather than simply inheriting it.
Historical accounts describe tattoos that emphasise differences in rank. Certain patterns are reserved for people who have attained the required standing. In some communities, women from prominent families can also receive markings connected with their father’s position or their marriage.
These practices vary between islands. Older regional accounts sometimes discuss them alongside New Caledonian traditions, including the pilou-pilou dance. New Caledonia is a separate island group, however, and is not part of Vanuatu.