copyright Susan Swift - Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Ketohs

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924 Paseo de Peralta      Suite 2      Santa Fe, NM  87501

              sszephyr@earthlink.net     505-820-1101      916-206-3421

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Before the Navajo became adept at working silver, he wore a simple leather wrist-covering as protection against the sting of the bowstring. The flowering of the silversmith's art in the last quarter of the 19th century led to the addition of silver ornament to this utilitarian form.  The top of the bowguard, or ketoh, became an inviting surface for the expression of a myriad of design variations, most of them reflecting a strong cultural preference for symmetry and equilibrium.  A central point with double curved elements radiating toward the four corners has emerged as a classic motif in the Navajo design lexicon.

Ketohs are worn by dancers throughout the Southwest as they offer their powerful rhytmic prayers in the ever-turning wheel of the seasonal ceremonies.  Reflecting the unity of all aspects of life that we see in Native American culture, the ketoh has a presence in the practical, the aesthetic and the mystical realms.                   

photo by Addison Doty

The Les Ochs Collection

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