Nataska/Wiharu
The fearsome Nataska always come as a
pair. They accompany the Soyoko on their collection trip and usually stand
directly behind the member of their crew who is bargaining with relatives of
the children. They make horrible noises, dragging their saws along the side
of the house or on the ground. All the while, they keep up a steady
stamping that makes the turtle-shell rattles on their legs sound ominously.
They are supposed to be able to eat a child whole; from the very earliest
age, the child has heard stories of these monsters – how they would descend
on children playing near the village and haul them away to cook and eat. So
it is no wonder that the children are petrified at their actual appearance!
Usually only dark-colored clothes are put on this kachina pair, who should
have horns. The feather fan is made of turkey feathers which are placed
close together to form a large mass behind the head that makes the figures
appear much taller and broader. Oftentimes the wide belt will be stained
red. The Wiharu performs in exactly the same manner that the Nataska do,
and differs only in color.
