Sun Kachina

Also known as Tawa. The Sun Kachina is a representation of the spirit of the Sun, though he may on occasion be called the Sun Shield Kachina. He appears in a role very similar to that of Nakiachop or Talavai, standing to the side with a spruce tree in his left hand and a bell in his right. Also, he may appear in a Mixed Dance with the flute in his left hand that is associated with him in many myths.

This guy is from a Tewa tribe and is used in other Pueblo tribal ceremonials. (Actually we have a larger one that is made of wood also). He was a gift when I worked in Navajoland in the early 1990's. At Christmas time the pueblos have ceremonial dances. My son and I used to go when he was a boy.

A video by PBS on Christmas in New Mexico; blending the Native American, American Christian and Mexican celebrations of the coming of the Christ Child.