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Magic in Mesilla - Furniture & Fine Art Auction Closed (#16594065)

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Navajo Mudhead Kachina

  Lot # S155
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Details
Lot # S155
System ID # 16606673
End Date
Start Date
Description

Navajo Mudhead Kachina

  • By Lucille Y
  • Dated 11-2-94
  • Wood, Leather, Feathers, Beads

The Koyemsi, or Mudhead Kachina, is a clown who may be seen in most Hopi ceremonies. Mudhead Kachinas drum, dance, play games with the audience, and may act as announcers for events. They often give prizes or rewards for the races and guessing games they organize. The term "mudhead" comes from their masks which have mud applied to them.

Most of the time they accompany other kachina; probably the only time when they do not appear with other personages is during the Night Dances. Koyemsi are usually the ones that play games with the audience to the accompaniment of rollicking tunes. These games are generally guessing games or simple attempts to balance objects of performances of some common act and the rewards are prizes of food or clothing.

Condition:
Good, As Shown, Imperfection on Back of Head

Size:
16" X 11" X 7.5"