Incidents in the Hopi Prayer for Rain

Hermon Atkins MacNeil

1931 · Bronze · The American Wing

In 1895, MacNeil observed a Hopi ceremony help in Oraibi, Arizona. Captivated by the dancers who caught and released live snakes (which are believed to carry prayers for rain), MacNeil created this commemorative medal. By 1915, the Hopi had outlawed outside recording of their ceremonies including sketches and photography.

Artist

Hermon Atkins MacNeil

Date

1931

Medium

Bronze

Culture

American

Department

The American Wing

Credit line

Gift of the Society of Medalists (through George D. Pratt), 1933