Iktomi

In Lakota mythology, Iktómi stands as a prominent spider-trickster spirit and cultural hero for the Lakota people. This complex deity appears across numerous Indigenous North American traditions under various names including Ikto, Ictinike, Inktomi, Unktome, and Unktomi - reflecting linguistic differences among the many nations who recognized this important figure.

While Iktómi's true form is that of a spider, this shapeshifting deity possesses the ability to assume any appearance, including human form. When manifesting as human, Iktómi is traditionally depicted wearing distinctive body paint in red, yellow, and white, with characteristic black rings encircling his eyes.