Kachina Doll (Hahaii)
Arts of the Americas
Angwusnasomtaqa, or Crow Mother, is considered one of several Kachina mothers. The winglike forms on the side of her head make her easy to recognize. She serves many roles and functions, including participating in village initiation ceremonies for children ten to fifteen years old. Crow Mother can be a stern teacher because she knows all the etiquette and virtues of Kachina culture and how people should behave. She guides other Kachinas in knowing right from wrong.
Wood, feather, fiber
late 19th century
This item is not on view
Museum Expedition 1904, Museum Collection Fund
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Hopi Pueblo. Kachina Doll (Hahaii), late 19th century. Wood, feather, fiber, 11 13/16 in. (30 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Museum Expedition 1904, Museum Collection Fund, 04.297.5563. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, CUR.04.297.5563_front.jpg)
. Brooklyn Museum photograph, 2011
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Kachina figure is probably Crow Mother-Angwusnasomtaqa and is one of the mothers of the Kachinas. She answers to the various calls of her children and certain ceremonial actions such as leading the performance and special initiation of children. As such she knows all the etiquette, moral ethics and virtues thus appears always to be very stately. Wing like forms on each side of head and the dark triangular shape with bar at base symbolize facial features are characteristic. Figure is painted blue, black, and white; feet are painted red. Feather headdress missing, surface wear.
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