Eagle Kachina
The
Eagle Kachina appears most often in the Kiva or Repeat Dances of early
March. The dance itself attempts to most closely duplicate the actions
and motions of the sacred bird, and is a prayer for the increase of
eagles. The eagle is honored as a protector, as well as a
communicator. It is the eagle who soars to the heavens in spirit to
tell the gods that the Hopi have properly completed their ceremonies;
therefore the rains should come to the field. Eagle kachinas are a
favorite subject for carvers, as they display incredible grace and
beauty. The colorful sash on each Eagle Kachina is said to tell the
story of the Hopi Emergence.
