Kikimora
Household Spirit
Characteristics
- Female counterpart to Domovoi
- Spins wool at night
- Can be helpful or harmful
- Associated with chickens
Appearance
- Small, thin woman
- Long unkempt hair
- Sometimes chicken legs
- Wears ragged clothes
Description
Kikimora is a female household spirit in Slavic mythology, often considered the wife or counterpart of the Domovoi. She is associated with spinning, weaving, and other domestic tasks, particularly those done at night.
A well-treated Kikimora helps with household chores, especially spinning wool. However, an angered Kikimora may tangle yarn, break dishes, or make strange noises at night to disturb the household.
Behavior
Kikimora is particularly active at night when the household sleeps. She is said to take care of chickens and poultry, and some traditions associate her with the cuckoo bird's call.
She dislikes mirrors and may break them if left uncovered at night. A messy house or neglected spinning work may anger her, while a clean home and offerings of yarn may earn her favor.
Cultural Significance
Kikimora represents the unseen forces that affect domestic life. She embodies both the benefits of hard work (when pleased) and the chaos of neglect (when angered).
In modern Slavic culture, Kikimora appears in literature and art as a symbol of household mysteries. She is sometimes portrayed more humorously as a representation of nighttime noises and unexplained domestic occurrences.