Summary
This carved figure is Mudhead or Koyemsi. He is a clown and appears in a group or as a solo drummer during rests between Katsina dances. Engaging with the audience the clown provides amusement and social commentary in order to relieve the seriousness of some ceremonial procedures. Koyemsi was introduced by neighbouring Zuni people and may still sing in Zuni language.
Local Name
Tihu
Physical Description
This wooden tihu (Kachina Doll) has a round head topped with spherical nodules, pop eyes and a tubular mouth. It is painted brown to represent the mud it is named for. It's bent arms are held close to its torso which is painted brown and white. It is wearing a white kilt which is decorated on one side with a vertically stepped triangle motif. It is placed on a black painted base standing straight legged, painted brown.
More Information
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Object/Medium
Figure
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Maker
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Cultural Groups
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Locality
North American South West, Arizona, United States of America
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Date Produced
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Object Measurements
100 mm (Length), 100 mm (Width), 218 mm (Height), 100 mm (Outside Diameter)
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Keywords
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Type of item
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Discipline
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Category
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Collecting Areas