Hopi Honan Katsina, Badger Kachina Doll [SOLD]

This representation of the Honan (Badger) Katsina differs from most of those published, however, it is known that there are several varieties of the Honan.  Harold Colton states that there are several types—with a case mask with red ears, snout, and badger tracks on cheeks: white, green, or black, and a new type with eagle feathers instead of red ears. Barton Wright agrees that there are variants of the katsina.  The identifying mark appears to be the badger tracks on the cheeks.

This carving of the Badger Katsina appears to be from the mid-twentieth century, perhaps circa 1940s or 1950s, based on the matte paints used.  He carries a rattle in his right hand and a bow in his left.  There is a rope from which to hang the doll, as well as a pedestal for display.

Condition: good condition with repair to the left shoulder, and minor paint loss on the back of one foot.

Provenance: this Hopi Honan Katsina, Badger Kachina Doll is from the collection of a client from New York

References: 

- Hopi Kachina Dolls with a Key to their Identification by Harold S. Colton

- Kachinas: a Hopi Artist’s Documentary by Barton Wright with original paintings by Cliff Bahnimptewa