If you are a fan of South American and Native American art, you have undoubtedly noticed that many pieces include the image of a thoughtful-looking flute player. This is actually the image of the traditional Kokopelli flute player. This very traditional image has been used for thousands of years. In fact, it was even found to be painted on boulders and rock walls by ancient civilizations. It is estimated that the history of the Kokopelli flute player goes back approximately 3,000 years. The image is used frequently in art, and can serve as the basis for a very interesting style of home decorating.
The Kokopelli Story and Myth
Because the Kokopelli flute player is such an ancient image, there is of course a rather long and varied story and myth behind it. Many of the Southwestern Native American Indian tribes consider the Kokopelli to be a fertility deity. A Hopi myth depicts the Kokopelli as distributing unborn children to women, carrying them on his back. A native Navajo legend depicts the Kokopelli as a God, associated with a plentiful harvest. According to this legend, he carries a cloud sack filled with seeds or rainbows. Other stories associate the Kokopelli with Aztec traders, who traveled about carrying sacks on their backs filled with goods. Since these traders sometimes used a flute to announce their arrival, at first glance this story seems to have merit. However, since the image existed prior to the arrival of the Aztec traders, this is probably also just a legend. There are also many other stories, legends and myths that surround this interesting image.
The Kokopelli in Art
The image of the Kokopelli flute player has been used in art for centuries. You’ll find the image painted on ancient ceramic pieces, jewelry, baskets and Kachina dolls. There are actually many people who collect Kokopelli art. Not only does this image have an interesting story and history, but it can also add a very decorative look to your home. Although you might not be lucky enough to have an authentic piece of ancient Kokopelli art, there are plenty of modern pieces that incorporate the image. In fact, the image is often depicted in contemporary metal decor pieces. In modern pieces, the Kokopelli is often shown wearing a kilt and sash. Sometimes you’ll even find images that have replaced his flute with other items, which can be fun even if not strictly traditional. However, you’ll also find plenty of art pieces that feature a more traditional image.
Kokopelli metal wall art can be a great way to work the image of this ancient mythical flute player into your home’s decor. You’ll find metal wall art pieces in a wide array of sizes and styles, which can make it easy to work the image into your home decor. It’s the perfect decorative touch for a room decorated in the Southwestern style, but it can also add a fun touch to almost any decorating style. For example, a stylized version of the Kokopelli could be quite effective when combined with a contemporary decorating style.
Photo credit to noriaki_takayama.
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