Shark traditional tattoo T-Shirt

Sharks have quite specific symbolism within Polynesian culture. The hammerhead in particular, was revered as a type of guardian that would protect people in the ocean from man eating sharks and shark teeth themselves (“niho mano”) and was representative of many things including power, protection, guidance and adaptability. These ideals seeped into the rich Polynesian tattoo culture, where many designs would feature the animal. Upon the expedition of Captain James' Cook, along with many other tattoo inspirations, this was adopted and westernized through Traditional tattoos.