$175.00
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Late 20th Century
9" H
Hand Carved from Cottonwood Root
Excellent Condition
The Hopi name for this Katsina, translating to "Sweet Cornmeal Tasting Koyemsi" (or similar variations like Toson Mudhead or Toson Koyemsi). It's a member of the Koyemsi (Mudhead) family, known for their sack-like masks and clownish roles in ceremonies.
This katsina is known as the Toson Mudhead, Toson Koyemsi, or Mudhead Ogre depending on the reference book consulted. He is not an Ogre, however, but a relative of the family. The most proper term is Tosonkoyemsi Katsina. This is an indication of the variety of Koyemsi and their differing functions.
A number of the Tosonkoyemsi Katsinas used to come with the Soyoko on Third Mesa at Hopi Pueblo and demand sweet cornmeal from the girls. They would then sit and taste the cornmeal to see if it was well-ground and sweet, and from this comes their name of Sweet Cornmeal Tasting Koyemsi. Since the Soyoko has not been performed on Third Mesa for over half a century, this kachina no longer appears in this role, part of which is now played by Heheya Aumutaka. The Tosonkoyemsi does not appear on First Mesa, and the Second Mesa form is radically different.
The Tosonkoyemsi wears a sack mask of the same style of the other Mudhead Katsinas. He has round eyes and a mouth made of corn husks. He generally is fully wrapped in a blanket and wears traditional pueblo moccasins. He carries no items in his hands.
Due to the fragile nature of kachina dolls, we do not guarantee they will not break during shipping. We do our best to pack them well, but due to their fragile nature and even with the best packing, small pieces can break. If you are purchasing kachina dolls, please keep this in mind.
