The word "ahote" literally means "restless one", but as a proper name it refers to a select group of Hopi Kachinas. There are four Ahote, one standing for each point of the compass. They are warrior guardians whose purpose is to stand at the perimeter of the ceremonial circle and defend it from intrusion while a dance or ritual is in progress. The Ahote most commonly portrayed in ceremonies and carved as dolls are Sikyahote, the Yellow Ahote of the East,
When I learned all this I could not resist creating a costume for Breyer's new Ahote, using the colors and symbols of the kachina's design (I sincerely hope this isn't disrespectful...). You can see from the accompanying photos of Sikyahote dolls what elements I have adapted. Looks brilliant on Ahote but also a perfect fit on Stone ISH and Breyer Indian Pony.
Black-on-red crosses and blue/red diagonal squares from Sikyahote's costume. Drape trimmed with "coyote tails" (real coyote fur)and sterling cones. Lance decorated with silver fox fur, turquoise and silver beads, cockatiel and pheasant feathers. Pad saddle with fully adjustable pull girth.
All handmade in July 2002 by Red Desert Saddlery, that is me, Paula O'Keefe.
and Sakwahote, the Blue Ahote of the West.
Bell collar with small copper bells and medicine bag containing sweetgrass and sage, trimmed with more pheasant feathers.
Braided war bridle with beaded slide, tiny beads on feathers, feathered forelock ornament.
Shield painted with Zuni Sunface design (from back of kachina costume), decorated with more coyote fur and copper bells.
Contact me: angelynx@spookhouse.net.