What do kachinas do

The dolls are not used as toys, but rather are hung from walls or otherwise displayed in the home. These treasured pieces are passed down from generation to generation, often staying within the same family for decades or even hundreds of years. Although not worshipped, each Kachina is viewed as a powerful being who, if given admiration and respect, will use its particular power for human good.

It is not known where the Kachina Cult originated, however, there is some evidence that points to a Mesoamerican origin, meaning indigenous cultures that developed in parts of Mexico and Central America prior to Spanish exploration and conquest in the 16th century. Some research suggests that the culture might have been brought with the clans which migrated to the south and then returned northward, bringing with them the kachina beliefs.

The similarity of many aspects of Hopi religion to that of the Aztec to the south strongly suggests this possible origin. There are a few archaeological hints which indicate that there was a viable Kachina Cult by the time the Hopi settled in present-day Arizona in Early evidence of kachina art has been found in the Puerco Ruins in the Petrified Forest National Park that dates back to about A. The first Kachina masks and dancers appear in rock art around A. Beginning in the 16th century the Spanish began to document having seen bizarre images of the devil hanging in Pueblo homes.

These were most likely kachina dolls. The first kachina doll was collected from the Hopi in by Dr. Palmer, a U. 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. Over time, the old drawings were revised from stick-like figures to clean, simplified designs with an emphasis on facial features and the use of colors in pictographs and kiva murals.

The dolls themselves also became more sophisticated and were adorned with fur, bird feathers, turquoise, and other natural elements to make them look more realistic.

It was not until the late s and early s that kachina dolls began to be sold in the marketplace. Kachina doll making today involves both tradition and artistry and is perceived as one of the most collectible Native American crafts on the market. As more non-Indian collectors became enamored with Kachina dolls, and as power tools like Dremel rotary tools became available, kachina doll carvers also became more creative.

The formerly flat doll carvings are now full-figured, with lifelike movements, brighter colors and elaborate regalia. Bean - Dances for a plentiful crop of beans. Snow - Brings snow and cold weather essential to the growth of crops. Lizard - Fighting Kachina, brings sweethearts together. Chief - Ancient Kachina, represents great power of knowledge.

Old Man - Grandfather Kachina, sings songs for a successful growing season. Crow Mother - Watches over children as they play. Hummingbird - Appears often as a runner, brilliant impersonate.

Santo Domingo - Blesses the seed for a good harvest. Zuni Rain Priest - Accompanies the Shalako to bring rain. Hototo - Preparer of food, most respected of the war Kachinas.

Warrior - Serves as a policeman, important war Kachina. Antelope - Dance to increase numbers, brings rain. Mudhead - Well known Kachina, acts as a clown. Rainbow - Represents peace and harmony amongst tribes. Broadface - Carries yucca whips to enforce community cleaning. Left-Hand - Reversed Kachina, does everything in opposite. Chasing Star - Symbolizes the planets and the stars. Snake Dancer - Sends message with the snake to ask the Gods to bring rain.

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