Kachinas By Native Artists
Bureau of American Ethnology, 1900

While our images are electronically watermarked, the antique prints themselves are not.

Sio Calako, Woe, Helilulu,Woe and Tcutckutu BAE6 $40
Each print measures approximately 11 1/2 inches by 7 1/2 inches.

Panteek is pleased to offer a stunning collection of images of Hopi Kachinas, or spirit-beings, drawn by native artists and published as chromolithographs by the Smithsonian’s 21st Annual Report of the Bureau of American Ethnology, circa 1900.

The Hopi peoples of Arizona and New Mexico believe in hundreds of supernatural spirits who control everything from the environment and weather to everyday health and quality of life. The Hopi peoples believe that to have a successful harvest and a well-balanced life, they must have the favor of the Kachinas, which translates to “life-givers.” The Hopi hold ceremonies to communicate with and give gifts to the supernaturals. A Hopi man, aged 10-80, assumes the revered mask and costume of a particular Kachina and become its earthly representative. His actions transmit the prayers of the community to the spirits. He also allows the Kachina to act through him, enabling him to cure disease, bring rain or good crops, or anything the Kachina’s specific power can grant.

By the end of the 19th century, early ethnologists began to collect the history and information about the Kachina ceremonies. Dr. Jesse Walter Fewkes of the Smithsonian’s Bureau of American Ethnology wished to have a collection of Kachina pictures without the influence of foreigners. Three Hopi artists – Kutcahonauu, his uncle Homovi, and Winuta - were given paper, pencils, brushes and paints to make these representations. Published in 1903, the drawings remain a valuable resource for anthropologists, and for people of other pueblos reconnecting with the Kachina traditions.  More information about Kachinas and this collection can be found at the Nizhoni Gallery website.

Each chromolithograph retains its bright colors on creamy paper with toned edges. Each print measures approximately 11 ½” x 7 ½”.

We accept credit cards & PayPal. Washington state residents pay Washington state sales tax. Shipping for this item is $8.95. Items can be combined to save on postage. Our environment is smoke free. We pack professionally using only new materials. All items are beautifully wrapped and suitable for sending directly as gifts. You may return any item within 7 days if not satisfied. To order, you may call us at 1-888-PANTEEK, fax or email.

  


Click to Order

Click to Contact

Return to the Prints