The kachina concept has three different aspects: the supernatural being, the kachina dancers, and kachina dolls (small dolls carved in the likeness of the kachina, that are given only to those who are, or will be responsible for the respectful care and well-being of the doll, such as a mother, wife, or sister).
How many different Kachinas are there?
There are more than 250 different Kachinas , each with its own separate attributes, representing everything from animals to abstract concepts. The Hopi were the original Kachina Doll carvers, using a single piece of cottonwood root.
Why are Kachinas so important?
Kachina means “life-bringer,” and various kachina rituals and ceremonies are believed to be essential in securing the growth of crops , the summer rains, and good health in an extreme climate. ... The Kachinas, in turn, can be viewed as those divine entities that regulate the phases of their terrestrial existence.
Which culture makes and uses kachina dolls in their religious system?
Kachina dolls are symbols of American Indian religion that evolved into collectible heirlooms of a complex cultural belief system. Uncover the fascinating history behind one of the most prized pieces of Native American art!
Who are the Kachinas and why are they important?
Kachinas can be spirits of deities, animals, and even deceased members of the Pueblo known for special kindness or prowess . One such Kachina, He-e-wuhti, wears the black face of a warrior. She is powerful and terrible to behold.
Who made Kachinas?
The first kachina doll was collected from the Hopi in 1857 by Dr. Palmer , a U.S. Army surgeon. Afterwards more dolls were picked up by travelers and the first photographs were taken in the 19th century. These early dolls were simple in style, with slightly detailed masks and simplified bodies.
How do you identify a kachina doll?
- Overall whitewash.
- Detailed painting of decorations and facial features.
- Clothing that is painted on or created from fabric.
- A ruff around the neck.
- Jewelry that is painted or made of metal and other materials.
- Handheld objects or props, such as rattles, knives, and tools.
What is the Kachina religion?
kachina, Hopi katsina, in traditional religions of the Pueblo Indians of North America , any of more than 500 divine and ancestral spirit beings who interact with humans. ... They will allow themselves to be seen by a community if its men properly perform a traditional ritual while wearing kachina masks and other regalia.
What is a Mudhead Kachina?
Kachina figures, known as the clown Kachina, or Koyemsi, are called Mudhead Kachina. Seen in most Hopi ceremonies, the Mudhead Kachinas play the role of entertainment and laughter at the Hopi dances . They drum, dance, play games and may act as announcers for events.
What is a Kachina dancer?
1. kachina – a masked dancer during a Pueblo religious ceremony who is thought to embody some particular spirit. dancer, professional dancer, terpsichorean – a performer who dances professionally. 2. kachina – a deified spirit of the Pueblo people.
What do Kachinas do?
A kachina can represent anything in the natural world or cosmos ; they represent people (clowns, warriors), animals (eagles, buffalos, and butterflies), natural forces (wind, lighting and thunderstorms), planets and stars (sun, moon) or deceased ancestors.
What are Kachinas and what is the purpose of their rituals?
The purpose of the Kachina dolls are to teach children to identify the various spiritual figures and the symbolism of their regalia and costumes . Festivals, ceremonies and dances of the Pueblo and Hopi tribes feature the Kachina dancers. These celebrations and rituals are carefully prepared in advance of the event.
What does the name Kachina mean?
In Native American the meaning of the name Kachina is: Spirit .
What is kachina Klub?
TO PLAN AND CONDUCT EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES EMPHASIZING AND ENCOURAGING PATRIOTIC, BENEVOLENT AND FRATERNAL FRIENDSHIP AMONG ITS MEMBERS. 1982. TAYLOR BEST.
What does kachina mean in Spanish?
Wiktionary. kachinanoun. A system or cult of (often secret) religious rituals and ceremonies involving masks and dances concerned with bringing rain and good crops and with community welfare and integration found in typically western Pueblo cultures in the North American Southwest. Etymology: From qatsina.
What Native American tribes made kachina dolls?
Native American Hopi artists carve kachina dolls, representing spirits of ancestors. Children learn about the kachina spirits while they play with the dolls. Chöp, the antelope kachina, wood, pigment, yarn, and feathers, Native American, Hopi Pueblo, 20th century; in the Brooklyn Museum, New York.
