Hopi Pueblo Hano Clown Puppet Doll by Henry Seeni

Henry Seeni was a Hopi craftsman in the 1950s who created a series of puppet dolls, which he modeled after Katsina figures. These Katsina figures, also known as Kachinas, are central to Hopi religious beliefs and cultural practices, representing spiritual beings that bring blessings and serve as intermediaries between the Hopi people and the spirit world. Seeni's decision to create toys modeled after these sacred figures sparked controversy among Hopi elders. They objected to the use of Katsina images for playthings, as it was seen as a form of disrespect or trivialization of their spiritual significance. As a result of these objections, Seeni apparently ceased the production of these puppet dolls, contributing to their rarity today.

One example of Seeni's work is a Koshari puppet doll, a representation of the Hopi clown figure, known for its role in ceremonies as both a trickster and a moral teacher. The puppet doll features movable arms and legs, and its design incorporates traditional Hopi colors and patterns. The limbs are connected with strings in a crossed formation, allowing the doll to mimic the movements of a European-style jumping toy when the strings are manipulated. This design not only showcases Seeni's craftsmanship but also reflects an interesting blend of traditional Hopi iconography with European toy-making techniques.

In Barton Wright's 1977 book, Hopi Kachinas: The Complete Guide to Collecting Kachina Dolls, he discusses a similar type of doll known as the "jumping doll." Wright notes that these jointed dolls, strung on crossed strings to create lifelike movements, have appeared cyclically as a minor fad among the Hopi. He attributes the first creation of this style of doll to a First Mesa man named Ben Seeni, suggesting that this tradition may have predated or coincided with Henry Seeni's work. This connection between these two artists highlights an intriguing intersection of traditional Hopi artistry and adaptation of outside influences in the creation of these unique and rare puppet dolls.

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Hopi Pueblo Hano Clown Puppet Doll by Henry Seeni is from an experienced collector in New York

Recommended Reading: Hopi Katsinas 1,600 Artist Biographies by Gregory Schaaf

TAGS: Hopi Pueblo, Katsinaa Dolls