Alosaka (Two-horned) Katsina
Year
ca. 1920
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Object detail
Production place
Media/Materials
Wood, paint, feathers, and twine
Credit line
Gift of Jane Stieren Lacy
Accession number
2009.7
Object type
Department
Location
Further information
Alosaka, also referred to as Muyingwa, is a Chief Katsina, the principal deity of germination. It appears during the Powamu (Bean Dance) ceremony in February, and its presence encourages the growth of crops. An important aspect of the Powamu is the anticipation of the coming growing season, with rituals designed to promote fertility and germination. During the Bean Dance, Alosaka emerges from the kiva carrying bean sprouts that will be presented to the women and children of the village to signify the success of the coming growing season.
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