An examination of Jonkunnu's evolution has led
to the discovery of several characters, some of which are no longer in
existence today. Jonkunnu characters vary from one part of the island to
another. The origin of many of these Post Emancipation figures emerged from
the local environment that included both African and Caribbean influences.
These characters are as dynamic and diverse as the Jamaican people and our
cultural heritage.
|
Horse Head |
|
Horsehead,
the character, is usually presented with a mule's skull fitted
with an articulated jaw, which is attached to a pole. The skull
is painted and eyes are added to give a real life appearance.
American researcher, Martha W. Beckwith's account of the
Horsehead at a Jonkunnu parade in Lacovia, St. Elizabeth states
that he carried a horse's skull affixed to a wooden frame that
was built to allow the jaws to open and shut in a lifelike
fashion. His body is covered by a long cotton drape. It is
believed that this character represents the overseer of the
plantation era, who usually appeared mounted on a horse and
clutching a whip.
|
|
|
Cowhead's costume consists of a
calico cloth tied tightly around the head. Half a coconut shell
is worn on the head to which real cow horns are attached. A wire
mesh mask on which facial features are painted covers the face.
Cowhead charges into spectators to keep them back, waving his
head from side to side, displaying the notion of power
surrounding tales of horned animals transmitted by our African
ancestors. In the African tradition horned figures symbolize
strength and power of important individuals in society who
display superior physical, supernatural and political
attributes. Horned figures have also been known to be associated
with funerals, warriors, initiation and circumcision ceremonies
and secret societies.
According to this tradition, the
adornment of (real) horns and sometimes a tail refers
specifically to circumcision ceremonies and subsequent
adulthood.
|
Cow Head's |
|
|
|
