Native American, Southwestern United States, Hopi, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. This hand-carved cottonwood kachina figure represents the Black Bear Kachina, known as Hon Katsina. It was skillfully crafted and painted black, brown, and white shades. The surface of the paint is textured due to blending in sand to the pigment. The style of the doll resembles those fashioned in the 1930s, although it is probable that it was created at a later date. The most notable aspect is the depiction of a bear's footprint adorning each of its cheeks and the turkey feathers. This kachina possesses the ability to heal ailments and during the Soyal Ceremony at First Mesa, he takes on the role of a sentinel or auxiliary dancer alongside the Chakwaina Kachina, and sometimes participates in the Palolokong Dance individually or as part of a collective, and the Mixed Kachina Dance. Size: 3" L x 2.25" W x 12.75" H (7.6 cm x 5.7 cm x 32.4 cm)

Provenance: private Orlando, Florida, USA collection, acquired from Adobe Santa Fe Gallery, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA, January 14, 2023

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#180721

Chips and nicks to surface pigments on body, feet, and ears. Some minor surface discoloration, otherwise intact. Old inventory label on base.