Aldrick Mooya
Turtle
8 1/4"
H with 1/2" base
In nature, the Turtle comes
from the waters, which the Hopi hold to be very sacred. The Hopi
culture view water as a vital source of life. Water gives their
crops life. The traditional Hopi thrives on the survival of their
crops for nourishment, and without water, this ancient form of
survival would not be possible.
The Hopi also believe that
their ancestor's came from the oceans. As the turtle comes in
from the same ocean tides, it is viewed to be sacred.
Although the Turtle dance
is believed to have been given first at Shipaulovi as a line
dance and to have come from Acoma sometime before the turn of
the century, this figure is unlike their Acoma counterparts.
They appear more like the
Long-haired kachinas, but again having their own functions. This
Kahaila is illustrated beautifully with careful attention to
detail in feathers, hands, and face. His reverent motions indicate
his attitude and activity.
