Search Results:

Viewing Record 1 of 1
 


Maker(s):Ami, Janis
Culture:Native American; Hopi (b. unknown-d. unknown)
Title:Clown (Kaisale) Kachina
Date Made:1980
Type:Ceremonial
Materials:cottonwood root, yarn, feathers, leather, paint
Place Made:United States; Northeastern Arizona; Hopi Reservation
Measurements:overall: 10 3/4 in.; 27.305 cm
Accession Number:  SC 1985.38.14
Credit Line:Gift of Katherine Gabel, class of 1959
Museum Collection:  Smith College Museum of Art
1985_38_14.jpg

Description:
This Clown (or Kaisale) kachina features multiple colorful horizontal stripes across his yellow body. His two pointed "horns" identify him as a Clown. Each horn, as well as his white ears, include feathers. He has a painted face with a green yarn "wreath" around his neck to resemble Juniper or Douglas Fir. Across his chest is a sash made out of black strands of string. His arms include turquoise arm bands, a black yarn bracelet, and a black cuff. He is holding unusual items in his hands, though I am unable to identify them from the photograph. A decorated apron hangs from his turquoise belt, while he wears fringed boots on his feet and black yarn ties around his legs. Likely causing a ruckus, he dances on a wooden platform--symbolizing that he was crafted for a tourist audience. AP2018

Tags:
ceremonies; kachina dolls; clowns;

Link to share this object record:
https://museums.fivecolleges.edu/detail.php?t=objects&type=ext&id_number=SC+1985.38.14

Research on objects in the collections, including provenance, is ongoing and may be incomplete. If you have additional information or would like to learn more about a particular object, please email fc-museums-web@fivecolleges.edu.

Viewing Record 1 of 1