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Mask of Ko thlama, and rear view of the head
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Mask of Ko thlama, and rear view of the head
Mask of Ko thlama, and rear view of the head of a Ko thlama personator, Zuni nation. Chromolithograph by August Hoen from John Wesley Powells 23rd Annual Report of the Bureau of American Ethnology, Washington, 1904
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Media ID 23199434
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
23rd Annual Bureau Ceremony Ethnography Ethnology Hoen Mask Nation Powell Report Ritual Wesley Zuni
EDITORS COMMENTS
Mask of Ko thlama: A Revelation of Zuni Ritual and Cultural Tradition The intricately designed Mask of Ko thlama, depicted in this chromolithograph by August Hoen for John Wesley Powell's 23rd Annual Report of the Bureau of American Ethnology in 1904, offers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Zuni people. This mask, a significant artifact of the Zuni tribe, represents a personator, an individual who dons the mask during traditional ceremonies and rituals. The frontal view of the mask reveals an intricately carved and painted visage, with a wide, open mouth, curved eyebrows, and a prominent nose adorned with feathers. The mask's eyes are encircled by intricate patterns, and the hair is depicted as a cascade of feathers, symbolizing the connection between the human and spiritual worlds. The rear view of the mask, displayed in this image, reveals the intricate detail and craftsmanship that went into its creation. The mask's complex structure is evident in the intricate carvings and the meticulously applied paint. The hair, made of real human hair, is carefully braided and secured to the mask, adding to its lifelike appearance. The Mask of Ko thlama holds deep significance in Zuni culture, representing the spirit of the Kachina, a supernatural being believed to influence the natural world. The mask's use in ceremonies and rituals serves to honor and connect the Zuni people to their spiritual heritage, reinforcing their deep-rooted traditions and beliefs. This chromolithograph, a testament to the artistic and cultural achievements of the Zuni people, offers a rare and valuable insight into the rich and complex world of Native American ethnography, providing a glimpse into a time when such traditions were still deeply rooted in daily life.
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