Flat Wood Hahai-i-Wuhti Katsina Doll [SOLD]

Hahai-i Wuhti is portrayed as a sprightly grandmother, and she is considered to be the mother of all Katsinas with a number of functions, one of which is the principle actor in the Water Serpent Ceremony. She is a very energetic, sprightly, talkative being.  It is her representation in doll form that is given to the very young Hopi babies and captive eagles. Her actions reflect her role overseeing the growth and proper behavior of children, so doll carvers often create her effigy as the first present a baby receives.

This Hopi doll was carved from a single piece of wood and painted with commercial paints.  It most likely dates to the 1990s.  It is not signed with a maker’s name, which is typical of dolls made for presentation, and not for sale. 

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: from a family in Oregon.

Recommended Reading: Kachinas: a Hopi Artist’s Documentary by Barton Wright with original paintings by Cliff Bahnimptewa.  This book is currently not available from Adobe Gallery