A Seated Koyemsi (Mudhead) carved by the great Jimmy Kootshongsie, popularly known as Jimmy Koots (1916 – 1996), from Third Mesa at Hopi.
The Koyemsi, or Mudheads, are an important part of the Hopi ceremonies; although they often seen as amusing, clown-like figures, they are messengers to and from the spirit world for the Hopi people.
This doll is carved in a seated postion, made from cottonwood, with “clay” top knot, eyes, ears with mud earrings, and a knob behind the head.. The knobs have feathers attached by string threaded into the wood. His black neckerchief, turquoise concho belt, wrist band and red boots are rendered in mineral pigments. Circa 1960s, 7 ¼ inches tall.
The seated mudhead would pair well with the Standing Mudhead kachina also by Jimmy Koots
A Seated Koyemsi (Mudhead) carved by the great Jimmy Kootshongsie, popularly known as Jimmy Koots (1916 – 1996), from Third Mesa at Hopi.
The Koyemsi, or Mudheads, are an important part of the Hopi ceremonies; although they often seen as amusing, clown-like figures, they are messengers to and from the spirit world for the Hopi people.
This doll is carved in a seated postion, made from cottonwood, with “clay” top knot, eyes, ears with mud earrings, and a knob behind the head.. The knobs have feathers attached by string threaded into the wood. His black neckerchief, turquoise concho belt, wrist band and red boots are rendered in mineral pigments. Circa 1960s, 7 ¼ inches tall.
The seated mudhead would pair well with the Standing Mudhead kachina also by Jimmy Koots
