Koyemshi

The Koyemshi is a clown figure from Zuni Native American culture. It is often referred to as a “Mudhead Clown”. They are great mimics who poke fun at people and are quite mischievous. They are the result of incest and are stupid and impotent. Different Koyemshi would be imitated in ceremonies based on their varying personalities. They serve as examples of how one should not act. Despite their unfavorable details, they are believed to predate Kachinas, and can bring good fortune and good weather.

Citations:

Bonvillain, Nancy. The Zuni. United States, Facts On File, Incorporated, 2009.

Robinson, Ann O’Connor Williams. Kachinas-Paone. United States, Robinson Galleries, Houston, 1976.