Gary Tso
Lizard / Monongye
10 3/4"
total height
We're very pleased to present
this terrific traditional kachina carving by Gary Tso.
Gary is not only a great carver,
but he's a good friend of ours and possibly the best Hopi tour
guide around. If you're ever interested in learning more about
Hopi culture - I highly recommend taking Gary's tour during your
next visit to Hopiland. Arrangements can be made through us as
well as through Gary directly.
He is one of the few young
Hopi men who can speak the language fluently and who has an historical
understanding of his religion and culture. He is one of the most
knowledgeable people I know, and his gifts obviously flow over
into his carving.
"The Lizard Kachina is
one of the Fighting Kachinas, a group that furnishes individuals
to chastise the clowns for their un-Hopi behavior. He is presumed
to represent a particular species of lizard, the Crotophytus.
This particular lizard is a brilliant turquoise color and very
fast in movement.
"Should a young man meet
one, he would address it as his friend and ask for a favorable
interview with his sweetheart, hoping that the lizard would help
him.
"The kachina usually
appears in the Mixed Kachina Dance but may also be seen in the
Powamu."
-Barton Wright, Kachinas: a Hopi
Artist's Documentary (110)
