Old Style Hopi Carved Shalako Traditional Katsina Doll by Robert Lomabalaquihoya

The Shalako, who are believed to have first arrived at Zuni around 1840, retrace the wanderings of the Zunis from the center earth to the modern pueblo. The Shalako are the God's messengers and run back and forth all year long carrying messages, as well as bringing moisture and rain when needed. When they leave, they also carry the Zunis' prayers for rain with them. The Shalako Ceremony is performed in late November or early December and takes place after the crops are in. This ceremony is the most important event of the year for the Zuni Indians of New Mexico. Because the Shalako are messengers to the gods, their departure at the ceremony is the final prayer for rain to fill the rivers, wells and springs before summer comes. This old style katsina is a great representation of the Shalako Katsina or (Salako taka) the male of the pair of Shalako dancers by Robert Lomabalaquihoya. Click on numbered boxes below image for additional views.