Hopi Pueblo Kyash, Parrot Katsina Doll [SOLD]

This all-wood Katsina doll is an expertly rendered carving that likely dates to circa 1940s, reflecting a traditional style prized by collectors. The doll is carved entirely from cottonwood root, with the style and pigmentation suggesting a mid-20th-century origin.

The carver displayed keen observation and skill by giving the figure a subtle sense of movement. The left shoulder and left arm are slightly elevated, cleverly indicating that the Katsina is preparing for a dance or ritual motion — a detail that brings the carving to life.

Distinguished by a vibrant palette and characteristic beak, this mask depicts the Parrot Katsina, a figure synonymous with the warmth of the sun and the southern direction.

The figure is adorned with traditional Hopi regalia, rendered with meticulous care. A beautifully painted traditional Hopi embroidered sash is worn, combined with a striking woven black and red sash that hangs down the right side of the figure. He wears a ketoh (a wrist guard, often a leather and silver adornment) on his left wrist and yarn is wrapped around his right wrist. A fox tail is suspended from the sash at the back of the figure, and he wears traditional blue moccasins.

This carving is a fine, dynamic representation of a ceremonial Katsina, made with the precision and attention to detail characteristic of skilled mid-century Hopi carving.

The following is from the book Kachinas, a Hopi Artist's Documentary by Barton Wright:

 "There is apparently a complete break in the history of the Parrot Kachina.  His appearance on First Mesa before the turn of the century is quite different from his appearance eighty years later on Second Mesa. Between these two personations no dolls were made that were recognizable as the Parrot Kachina, nor were any dances given as the paraphernalia was not available. In 1965 a Parrot Dance was given as a regular dance for the first time in several generations.  Formerly it had been given in the Water Serpent Ceremony on First Mesa. This kachina's purpose seems to be one of bringing summer growth plus the increase of parrots. This is the appearance of the Second Mesa Parrot Kachina."  [Wright, 1973:193]

What is a Katsina? 

Condition: very good condition for its age

Provenance: this Hopi Pueblo Kyash, Parrot Katsina Doll is from the collection of a client from California

Reference: Wright, Barton. KACHINAS A Hopi Artist's Documentary. Northland Press, Flagstaff, 1973

TAGS: Katsina Dolls, Hopi Pueblo, Hopi Kachina Dolls