Native American Hopi Carved Clown Katsina Doll with Drum

Description

Native American Hopi Carved Clown Katsina Doll with Drum by John Fredericks

The Clown (Koshare) (Summer Clown) is known by many other names, including Kaisale (Winter Clown), Tsuku (Second and Third Mesa), Koyaal, and Hano (First Mesa) and Ho-e or Wo-e. This particular Katsina is a clownish figure that comes with the Katsinam during the late winter Powamuya ceremony. His humorous and irresponsible behavior make him quite lovable. He accompanies the Chief Katsinam as well as the fierce guard and warrior Katsinam. The Clown has a complex ceremonial role, giving wisdom and advice as well as poking fun at unacceptable behavior. The Clown is said to be a glutton, always overdoing it whether he is making fun of the dancers, trying to get the children to behave during ceremonies, eating watermelon, or commenting on Hopi behavior. They are generally amusing and do things that no Hopi or anyone else would want to be caught doing. They are often depicted with a watermelon. This clown is drumming his heart out.