Zuni Heheya Katsina, circa 1950s [SOLD]

As is tradition, this Zuni Pueblo Katsina doll was carved from a single piece of wood for the complete body, with the arms and ears separately applied. Also, in traditional Zuni form, each arm of the doll has been attached with a peg so that it articulates, and the skirt and moccasins have been made of fabric.

The Katsina body is painted with a rusty-colored wash, the mask is painted a light blue color with black facial markings, and the upper legs and thighs are painted white. The snout, nose and ears are painted red. He carries a bag of corn meal in his right hand. If he had something in his left hand, it is missing. Yarn is used for the armband and ankle bands. His necklace is fabricated from real turquoise stones that have been glued to a piece of felt. The sash that hangs on his backside is made of cutout pieces of felt. The doll is in excellent condition.

This is one of the finest made Zuni dolls we have had the pleasure of having in the gallery. The carving is well above average.

Reference: Kachinas of the Zuni, by Barton Wright.

Provenance: we sold this katsina doll to a client in 2006 and now have it back for sale