Summary

This tihu represents Angwusnasomtaka (Hopi language) or in English, Crow Mother Kachina. She is one of the Chief Katsina. Some Hopi believe her to be the mother of all Katsinam as well as the mother of all the Hu or Whipper Katsina. These Katsinam are involved in the initiation of Hopi children and Angwusnasomtaka supervises in ceremony. She coordinates the procession and the dances of other Katsinam at the start of the new agriculatual season. Through these dances the Hopi seek fertility and growth for both the crops and their community.

Local Name

Tihu

Physical Description

This wooden tihu (Kachina Doll) is painted with a white mask, a black triangular mouth and she has a black band on her chin. She wears a white cloak with black abstract designs over a black tunic with a white belt. She has a headdress that resembles black wings protruding from the sides of her head. Her arms are not visible, but concealed under the cloak. Her legs are straight legs and she stands on a painted black base.

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