Native American Hopi Carved Kokopelli Fertility Kachina Doll (Katsina Doll)

Description

Native American Hopi Carved Kokopelli Fertility Katsina Doll by Norman Cuch

The Humpback Flute Player (Kokopelli) is an engaging image that originated in ancient Paleo-American culture and was brought into the present by the Pueblo Indians. This classic figure of a bent over being playing a flute has been associated with shamanism and supernatural qualities. Kokopelli is a magical being who, by playing his flute, calls the clouds to make rain. Today, the Hopi play flutes over the springs to attract rain. Kokopelli is also a symbol for fertility because he carries seeds and mist in his hump. He is mischievous when it comes to seducing young maidens! It is interesting to note that the hump, an abnormality or deformity, is considered special, even magical and transformative like fantastic creatures, such as unicorns, griffins, etc. Shamen are often deformed or have narrowly escaped physical death. This style is called the "Fancy" or Kuwan Kokopelli.