Adobe Gallery Blog

During a ceremonial plaza dance, the Koosa are not clowns and are not intended to amuse.  They represent the spirits of the ancestors or Ancients of the people, those who have direct influence with the gods. During such dances, the Koosa dance with the performers. There is nothing but the utmost seriousness by the Koosa during the dance and the clowns generally torment the Katsina dancers but are not to be seen as they are supposedly invisible. They are known to eat in excess and are always gluttons so it is quite common to see them rendered either eating or hoarding food.

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