Twentieth Century Hopi Pueblo Apache Kachina Doll Yoche Katsina [SOLD]

This carving of the Yoche (Apache) Katsina doll is a lifelike image of the katsina. He represents the Apache Indians as reflected in the Hopi ceremonial culture. It is an all-wood carving embellished with yarn, feathers, and leather. The paint appears to be a water based one, dating the doll to circa 1950s. The carving was executed with excellent care and precision. The doll's torso is exquisite. The facial paint is a beautiful mixture of colors that work well together.

The carving is attuned to modern times in that he is shown wearing a gun holstered in a belt. Most carvings of this doll feature the man with bow and arrows. He wears a beautiful rendered leather piece over his shoulders, leather arm cuffs, and carries a leather bound pack on his back. Around his forehead is wrapped a colorful twisted yarn band. His moccasins are high top as worn by Apache to fend off cactus during prowling in the countryside.

The carver of this doll did an exceptional job in carving and finishing. It is a beautiful rendition of the Apache Katsina.

According to published information by Barton Wright, acknowledged expert on Katsina culture, the Yoche Katsina is a comic figure or caricature of an Apache Indian. It may appear during the Kiva Dances both early and late, or with the Soyohim later in the year. A group of them frequently appears in the Buffalo dances during the Katsina season. Their actions are usually those that one would expect of Apaches on the warpath. They are often used in conjunction with the clowns.

What is a Katsina? 

Condition: very good condition

Provenance: this Twentieth Century Hopi Pueblo Apache Kachina Doll Yoche Katsina  is from the collection of a client from California

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

TAGS: Katsina Dolls, Hopi Pueblo, Hopi Kachina Dolls