Hemis Mana Katsina Doll by Oswald Fredericks

This Hemis Mana Katsina doll by Oswald Fredericks (Kucha Honowah - White Bear) is a vibrant and finely detailed representation of an important figure in Hopi ceremonial tradition. Known for his work as both an artist and a cultural scholar, Fredericks (1905-1996) brought deep authenticity to his carvings, informed by a lifetime dedicated to preserving and sharing Hopi history and cosmology. His contributions as a translator and oral historian were instrumental to Frank Waters' Book of the Hopi, a landmark publication that gave voice to Hopi perspectives on their own culture.

This doll represents the Hemis Mana, a figure associated with the Niman or Home Dance, often celebrated with singing, dancing, and the playing of traditional percussion instruments. Among these are rasps, made from resonating gourds, notched sticks, and sheep scapulas. The scapula is drawn along the notched stick, creating a resonant, rhythmic sound central to the ceremony.

The carving is enhanced with vivid color and elaborate featherwork, particularly around the bottom of the mask. Subtle details include red and green yarn wrapped around the wrists and a single white feather at the top of the mask, accented by the black on the top of the mask — a quietly expressive touch that punctuates the form. The piece is signed on the bottom with Fredericks' personal insignia, marking it as both a work of art and a cultural record.

What is a Katsina? 

Condition: very good condition with one imperceptible repair to the rasp

Provenance: This Hemis Mana Katsina Doll by Oswald Fredericks is from a collector in Kentucky.

Recommended Reading: Book of the Hopi: The First Revelation of the Hopi's Historical and Religious World-view of Life by Frank Waters

TAGS: Kachina - Katsina Dolls, Hopi Pueblo, Elizabeth White Polingaysi, Oswald Fredericks