Native American Hopi Carved Longhair Kachina Sculpture (Katsina Sculpture)

Description

Native American Hopi Carved Longhair Katsina Sculpture by Norman Cuch

The Longhair (Angak'china) is originally from Zuni Pueblo. Longhair appears at most Hopi Mesas. He wears his hair loose on his back to represent falling rain. He is one of the most popular of all Katsinam. These Katsinam appear in a group and sing a very powerful melodious song which may be one of the reasons that they are such favorites. They often appear at the Home Going Dance (Niman). Their purpose is to bring rain, and it is said that they seldom dance without the appearance of a soft gentle rain to help the crops grow. This sweet sculpture by Norman shows a full ear of corn in the center and the pueblo at the Katsina's feet. The back of the carving shows a Longhair Redbeard (Hokyan Angak'china) and the clouds forming above the Pueblo to bring the rain for the crops.