Hopi Pueblo Koshare Clown Katsina Doll with Gifts

C4725C-clown.jpg

+ Add to my watchlist Forward to Friend


Once Known Native American Carver

The Koshare Clown: A Symbol of Hopi Culture and Humor

This clown is a remarkable representation of the Hopi Koshare, a figure deeply embedded in Hopi culture. This Koshare, a testament to the artistry of its creator, is intricately adorned with a variety of materials, including fabric and string. In a gesture of generosity, he bears gifts for the Hopi people. His left hand clutches a bag filled with presents, while his right hand extends a shallow bowl, an offering to an unseen recipient.

Close up view of the plate in the Clown's hands.  Of course he ate everything and didn't share.

The craftsmanship of the carving is evident in its precision and attention to detail. The Koshare stands upright, though it requires support or can be hung on a wall, much like a traditional katsina doll. While its exact age remains uncertain, it is believed to date back to the 1950s.

The Koshare, one of the most recognized Hopi clowns, traces its origins back to the Tewa Pueblos of New Mexico. It is believed that the Koshare arrived at Hopi with the pueblo immigrants following the Pueblo Revolt, settling in a village atop First Mesa, known today as Hano Village. Despite their Tewa roots, the inhabitants of Hano Village have adopted the Hopi culture and retained their Tewa language, and the Koshare has become a ubiquitous figure in all Hopi villages, even earning a Hopi name.

Interestingly, the New Mexico Tewa people refer to this clown as Koosa, not Koshare. These clowns serve a dual purpose: to entertain and to educate. Their humor often highlights behaviors that deviate from the accepted Hopi way of life. During plaza events, the clowns perform pantomimes that satirize such behaviors. For instance, they might mimic gluttony, using humor to underscore its negative implications. These performances often incite uproarious laughter from the audience, effectively combining entertainment with moral instruction.


Condition: good

Provenance: this Hopi Pueblo Koshare Clown Katsina Doll with Gifts is from a private collection

Recommended Reading:

Clowns of the Hopi: Tradition Keepers and Delight Makers by Barton Wright

Kachinas: a Hopi artist’s documentary by Barton Wright

TAGS: Kachina – Katsina DollHopi Pueblo

Close up view of the face of this Katsina doll.

Once Known Native American Carver
C4725C-clown.jpgC4725C-large.jpg Click on image to view larger.